TMJ & TMD Dentist In Clayton, NC

Restore Comfort To Your Daily Life

If you’re dealing with constant jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort when chewing, you might be suffering from TMJ disorder. At Mooring Dental, Dr. Sean Mooring and our experienced team are here to provide effective, personalized solutions to help relieve your pain and restore comfort to your daily life.

We provide expert TMJ / TMD treatment to patients in Clayton and surrounding North Carolina, including Auburn, White Oak, Powhatan, and greater Garner.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder (or temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly referred to as TMD) affects the joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. These joints are responsible for the movement of your jaw, allowing you to chew, speak, and yawn. When the temporomandibular joints become inflamed, damaged, or misaligned, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and more.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder can cause a wide variety of symptoms that can affect your overall quality of life. Some of the most common signs that you may be experiencing TMD include:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness: Pain around the jaw, especially when chewing or speaking, can be a hallmark of TMJ disorder.
  • Clicking or popping sounds: If you hear clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing your mouth, this could indicate a TMJ issue.
  • Headaches and migraines: Frequent headaches, particularly in the temples, are often linked to TMJ dysfunction.
  • Difficulty opening your mouth: You may feel as if your jaw is “locking” or find it difficult to open or close your mouth fully.
  • Earaches or ringing in the ears: Some patients experience ear pain or ringing, known as tinnitus, which can be related to TMJ problems.
  • Facial pain or swelling: Swelling or discomfort in the face, especially around the jaw, is another potential sign of TMJ disorder.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of TMJ disorder, including:

  • Jaw misalignment: When the bite is misaligned or teeth are not in the proper position, it can strain the TMJ and lead to dysfunction.
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching): Chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly at night, can put excessive pressure on the jaw joints.
  • Injury to the jaw: Trauma, such as a blow to the jaw or head, can damage the TMJ and cause pain.
  • Arthritis: In some cases, arthritis can affect the temporomandibular joint, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
  • Stress: High levels of stress can cause tension in the jaw, leading to clenching and increased strain on the TMJ.

TMJ Treatment Options at Mooring Dental

At Mooring Dental, we provide a range of non-invasive, effective treatments to address TMJ disorder and help you find lasting relief from pain and discomfort. Dr. Sean Mooring works closely with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan based on your unique symptoms and needs. Our TMJ treatment options include:

Custom Night Guards

For patients who grind or clench their teeth at night, a custom night guard can be a highly effective solution. These appliances are designed to be worn while you sleep, protecting your teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism and reducing the strain on your TMJ. A night guard helps keep your jaw in a relaxed position, preventing clenching and grinding that can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.

Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)

Bite adjustment or occlusal equilibration involves making minor adjustments to the surfaces of your teeth to improve the alignment of your bite. By balancing the way your teeth come together, we can help reduce stress on the TMJ and alleviate associated pain.

Stress Management and Muscle Relaxation

For many patients, stress and tension are significant contributors to TMJ discomfort. Dr. Mooring may recommend strategies to manage stress, such as relaxation exercises, massage therapy, or stress-reducing techniques. These approaches can help relieve muscle tension in the jaw and improve your overall TMJ health.

Orthodontics for TMJ

In cases where misaligned teeth or an improper bite are contributing to TMJ disorder, orthodontic treatment may be recommended. By correcting the alignment of your teeth, we can reduce the pressure on the TMJ and prevent future problems. Mooring Dental proudly offers orthodontic treatment with SureSmile clear aligners, similar to Invisalign.

Why Choose Mooring Dental for TMJ Treatment?

At Mooring Dental, we are dedicated to helping our patients find relief from the pain and discomfort of TMJ disorder. Dr. Sean Mooring uses advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. Our personalized approach means that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific symptoms, allowing you to return to a life free from TMJ-related pain.

Schedule Your TMJ Consultation Today!

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of TMJ disorder, don’t let the discomfort take over your life. At Mooring Dental, we are here to provide the relief you need with compassionate, expert care.

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION