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Can Dental Crowns Treat My TMJ?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I wear a custom nightguard for TMJ. It helps with jaw clicking and migraines. My teeth grinding has worn down my molar teeth. One tooth cracked last week. The TMJ specialist recommended adjusting my bite with inlays or crowns on my lower teeth to alleviate TMJ discomfort. Are putting crowns on my teeth a way to treat TMJ, or is it a waste of money? – Thanks. Max from Fort Lauderdale

Max,

Treating TMJ disorder is common and acceptable by using dental crowns to rebuild your bite and change how your teeth come together. Sometimes, a full-mouth reconstruction involving crowning all the teeth is recommended.  Sometimes, a dentist may recommend full-mouth reconstruction or dental crowns on all teeth.

Although people may use the term “TMJ specialist,” TMJ treatment is not a recognized dental specialty.

What Kind of Training Does a Dentist Need for Complex TMJ Cases?

Comprehensive TMJ treatment often requires advanced training beyond standard dental school education. Because jaw movements are intricate, this typically involves post-graduate training in complex restorative dentistry.

Dentists seeking advanced training in TMJ treatment often attend renowned institutions such as:

  • Piper Education and Research Center
  • Spear Education
  • The Dawson Academy
  • The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies
  • The Pankey Institute

Completing the entire curriculum from one of these institutes helps a dentist achieve optimal expertise.

Based on your description, your current dentist may understand TMJ treatment well. The effectiveness of your mouthguard suggests that your current treatment plan is showing positive results.

It may be beneficial to discuss your treatment plan with your dentist, including any specific training they have received in TMJ treatment.

 

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie

Will Jaw Pain and Popping Recur with a New Bridge?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I had jaw pain and popping with my last dental bridge and had to see a TMJ specialist to correct it. I got that bridge in 2001, so it is time to replace it. I relocated and switched dentists in 2014. Three weeks ago, I asked her about a new bridge, and she recommended a zirconia bridge. The pretreatment estimate includes a porcelain upgrade, which my dentist did not explain. I’ve had a billing issue in the past with this practice, so before I call, can you explain the porcelain upgrade? Is this related to my previous TMJ issues? Or should I be concerned that the jaw pain and popping will recur? Thanks, Hannah

Hannah,

We understand your concerns about a new dental bridge, especially if you’ve had TMJ concerns that required a specialist to resolve.

Will Jaw Pain and Popping Recur with a New Dental Bridge?

X-ray side-skull view of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Get a second opinion to prevent or resolve temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complications

Jaw pain and popping will not recur with a new dental bridge if your dentist has advanced occlusion and bite training. A dentist with post-graduate occlusion and bite training understands how your teeth should meet when you close your mouth or chew. Also, the contact force between your teeth affects your facial and jaw muscles.

Are TMJ and Zirconia Crowns Related?

Online articles about zirconia crowns have varying opinions about how zirconia crowns affect your TMJ (jaw joint) risks. Your dentist must take accurate impressions of your mouth and ensure your bridge fits well and is in harmony with your lips and bite.

What Is a Porcelain Upgrade for Your Bridge?

The dental office’s terminology of a porcelain upgrade is not a term that dentists commonly use. You should call the office and ask for an explanation of the terminology. You can check the insurance company for their opinion on the upgrade if you have dental insurance. Your pretreatment estimate will help you anticipate out-of-pocket costs.

Although we are unsure of what “porcelain upgrade” means, below are possibilities:

  • Your dentist may be planning for premium crowns if the bridge affects your front teeth.
  • The framework for your crowns may be a more expensive metal or metal-free.

However, ensure your dentist gives you a thorough explanation before you agree to treatment. If you are uncomfortable with the answer, we suggest getting a second opinion from a dentist with TMJ training.

 

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Learn more about TMJ symptoms and treatment.

How Long Does TMJ Last?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How long does TMJ last? Since late October, I have had horrible jaw pain and clicking when I open my mouth or eat. I also have very painful and clogged ears. Sometimes, they ring, which affects my sleep. I am concerned that I feel tired when I wake up after pain and ear-ringing episodes. My dentist said surgery would just make it worse, and the medicine would help, but it is not helping. Will the pain eventually go away? – Morgan

Morgan,

Thank you for contacting Delaune Dental. We understand your concerns about your TMJ discomfort and other symptoms. Although Dr. Delaune would need to perform a comprehensive exam to identify the source of your discomfort, we will explain the basics about how long symptoms can last.

How Long Does TMJ Last?

TMJ can last a few days to a few weeks or longer depending on several factors, including:

  • The severity of your case
  • The cause of your symptoms
  • Whether you get treatment, including self-help or professional care
  • Your compliance with treatment recommendations
close up of temporomadibular joint

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

TMJ pain and discomfort sometimes go away with self-care, including TMJ exercises, alternately applying heat and cold to the side of your face, and using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.

Depending on the severity of the disorder, you may not be completely relieved of the symptoms, but they can improve. Some cases require professional care. If you have lingering symptoms, we suggest an appointment with a dentist with training and experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ. You may need to wear a custom night guard to relax your jaw and relieve the TMJ joint and facial muscles while sleeping.

Schedule an appointment with a dentist experienced in this area. They will evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

I’m So Tired of My TMJ Ear Pain

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Brunette man in his 30s holding his ear, portraying TMJ ear painI am so tired of my TMJ ear pain. I’ve had sharp, shooting ear pain on and off for the past three years, and it’s getting worse. In 2019, I saw a massage therapist, which seemed to help, but I moved during Covid and have not gotten back on track. My therapist then recommended self-exercises and warm packs on the sides of my mouth. I’m beginning to have neck pain at night for the past month.

Sleep is challenging because I also snore and know my sleep quality must be poor. I only have a dog at home, so no one is here to tell me how badly I store, but my dog doesn’t leave the room at night. Yesterday morning, I was talking with several colleagues, and the topic of sleep apnea came up. One person said they got good results from wearing a mouthguard at night. I’ve tried that before, but it didn’t seem to help. Are there alternatives? Thank you. Josiah from UT

Josiah,

We are sorry to hear that you’ve been suffering from TMJ symptoms and ear pain. We hope that our response will help you find relief.

What Causes TMJ Ear Pain?

The jaw joint is near the ear canal, so TMJ inflammation can affect your ears, causing pain or ringing (tinnitus). An ENT specialist or dentist trained in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders can determine if TMJ or another condition is causing your ear pain or ringing.

What Is the Treatment for TMJ?

TMJ treatment depends on the cause and severity of your condition. After an examination, a TMJ dentist will explain treatment options, which may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Applying moist heat to the area
  • Custom night guard to minimize the effects of clenching and grinding your teeth
  • Eating soft foods
  • Relaxation techniques
  • TMJ stretches and exercises

Are Sleep Apnea and TMJ Related?

Studies show that sleep apnea and TMJ disorders are related. According to a 2019 article published in The Journal of Craniomandibular & Sleep Practice, when the jaw joint malfunction contributes to

  • Teeth grinding
  • Headaches
  • Ear pain
  • Sleep disturbances

Request a Consultation with a TMJ Dentist

If you are experiencing TMJ symptoms, schedule an exam with a dentist with post-graduate training in diagnosing TMJ disorders. After a comprehensive exam, the dentist will explain how you can get relief.

 

In Metairie, Louisiana, Dr. Duane Delaune has been diagnosing and treating TMJ cases for decades. Visit his website to read about his training.

New Crowns Affect My Speech and Make My Neck Hurt

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My dentist placed four new crowns on my front teeth. Two crowns got rid of a gap between my center front teeth, and my dentist added two more crowns to even out my smile so the center teeth would not look too large. Since getting the crowns, my mouth does not close correctly, and I have trouble pronouncing some words, like words that begin with “tr.”

Also, my mouth and lips are dry, and I have some neck and jaw pain. I’ve had the crowns for three months, and despite my dentist’s adjustments, I see no improvements. I prefer to go back to my gap because the crowns are so uncomfortable.

My dentist asked me to give him more time, But I am unsure what we are waiting for. So far, I do not have another appointment scheduled with him. What are my options? Thank you. Edgardo from TX

Edgardo,

Your description is a problem that requires the attention of a dentist with advanced training in occlusion and bite. Dentists who study occlusion and bite understand proper jaw function and how your upper and lower teeth should meet when you close your mouth or bite down.

When Dental Crowns Cause Speech Issues and Pain

When a dentist places new crowns, you begin to experience speech issues and neck and jaw pain, so closing your gaps is not the issue. Usually, the problem is that your dentist opened your bit too far.

Several issues can create a bite that opens too far:

  • Crowns are too thick
  • Crowns are too long

Symptoms from Poor-Fitting Crowns

Poor-fitting crowns can prevent proper mouth closure and neck and jaw pain.

  • Lip incompetence – When your lips cannot close naturally without effort, it can lead to dry mouth. And as saliva production decreases, bacteria breeds And black buildup leads to tooth decay.
  • Jaw and neck pain – Upper and lower teeth that do not meet cause jaw strain. Repeated stress results in neck and jaw pain.

Get a Second Opinion for Your Dental Crowns

Schedule an appointment with a dentist who has advanced training in occlusion and bite. Your neck and jaw pain should resolve with new crowns that fit well. Otherwise, if your symptoms continue, the National Institutes of Health’s brochure on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder recommends conservative treatment. A dentist may recommend a custom split to wear and night and help your jaw relax.

Duane Delaune, DDS, an cosmetic dentist of Metairie, New Orleans, sponsors this post.

Before-and-after dental crowns photo

Crowns that fit well prevent speech issues and jaw and neck pain.
Photos are of Dr. Delaune’s patient.

 

Is It TMJ or an Ear Infection?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Does your ear hurt and feel full and you think it might be related to TMJ? How can you determine the real cause of your symptoms?

What Is TMJ?

TMJ has is an acronym that is commonly used to describe dysfunction with the temporomandibular joint, which connects your lower jaw (mandible) to the bone on the side of your head (temporal).

close up of temporomadibular joint
TMJ disorder can cause ear pain

There are many signs and symptoms associated with TMJ. And you don’t have to experience them all to have a TMJ disorder. You might be experiencing one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

  • Pain in or around your ear
  • Chronic headaches
  • Chronic earaches
  • Tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
  • Clicking or popping noises when you open your mouth
  • Jaw clenching
  • Jaw pain or soreness that is worse in the morning or late afternoon
  • Jaw pain when you chew, bite or yawn
  • Tender jaw muscles
  • Sensitivity in your teeth
  • Bruxism (grinding your teeth)

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of an Ear Infection?

Although you may not be experiencing all of them, common signs and symptoms of an ear infection in adults include:

  • Ear pain
  • Fluid draining from the ear
  • Impaired hearing
  • Fullness in the ear
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • In severe cases, a stiff neck and/or fever

If you think you have TMJ, schedule an appointment with a dentist who has advanced training in the disorder. He or she will examine your teeth, jaw, and bite to make the determination.

How Will It Be Treated?

  • If you have TMJ, a customized mouthguard will be recommended for you to wear while you sleep. It will relax your jaw and prevent bruxism, which is often related to TMJ.
  • Relaxation and jaw exercises might be recommended to help relax the muscles.
  • It can also help to alternately apply hot and cold packs to the side of your face where the muscles are sore.

What If Your Symptoms Don’t Match TMJ?

Even if you don’t think you have TMJ, chronic ear pain should not be ignored. An untreated infection can spread and permanently affect your hearing and balance. You should schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. If necessary he or she will refer you to a specialist.

This post is sponsored by Dr. Duane Delaune of Delaune Dental in New Orleans.

Do I Have tmj or tmd?

Posted on by writeradmin.

I’m a little confused about which problem I have. I’ve been having problems with severe headaches and pain in my jaw. Someone said they think I have TMJ . I went home to look that up and there seems to be two things. One is called TMJ and one is called TMD. How do I know which one I have?

Carol

Dear Carol,

close up of temporomadibular joint

There’s a good reason you are confused about this. Even though they have two different technical meanings, people (especially patients) use them synonymously.

TMJ refers to the temporomadibular joint. I’ve placed a picture of it above so you can see a close up of it. TMD refers to the disorder of the temporomandibular joint.

Generally, when people say TMJ they mean TMJ disorder (or TMD).

If You Have TMJ Disorder

The symptoms you’ve described above do relate to TMJ Disorder.
There are many possible reasons for developing jaw problems. Your next step would be to see a dentist with expertise in TMJ problems, so he can properly diagnose the cause.

You want a dentist who’ has invested in significant post-doctoral training in TMJ diagnosis and treatment. For instance, Dr. Delaune has done extensive training with the world renown Dawson Academy.

There is not a recognized TMJ Specialty so any general dentist can call themselves a TMJ dentist. That makes it especially important you know that the dentist you’re dealing with is actually qualified.

Treatments vary depending on the cause. It can range from a simple orthotic device up to a full-mouth reconstruction. Good dentists start with the most conservative treatment except for the most rare, devastating cases.

I hope this helps. This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Can My Dentist Treat My TMJ?

Posted on by writeradmin.

I was talking to my dentist about some jaw pain. He asked me a few questions and said he thinks I have TMJ disorder. We scheduled a follow-up appointment to run some additional tests and discuss treatment. After I got home I started wondering if instead of just going to my general dentist about this I should schedule an appointment with a TMJ Dentist. What do you think? Is it safe to stay with my dentist for this?

Miranda W.

Dear Miranda,

A woman holding her jaw from TMJ pain

Your doubts are based on a common misunderstanding about TMJ. There isn’t really such a thing as a TMJ Dentist. By that I mean there isn’t a recognized TMJ specialty with the American Dental Association (ADA). All TMJ dentists are just general dentists. That being said, it doesn’t mean every general dentist is qualified to treat TMJ. It does require specialized training. So how do you know if your particular dentist has what it takes?

The first thing I’d do is check their website. If they have a TMJ page, check to see if they list any specific training. If they don’t have a page, check their bio. They should list some respected institute where they did post-doctoral studies in TMJ diagnosis and treatment. For instance, Dr. Delaune trained at the esteemed Dawson Academy. Other respected institutes would be among the following:

  • The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI)
  • The Kois Center
  • The Pankey Institute
  • Spear Institute

There are others, but these are among the best.

Warning Signs about TMJ Dentist

One thing to be aware of is aggressiveness in treatment. Dentists with expertise in TMJ will start with the least invasive treatment options first. If your dentist goes straight to suggesting a full mouth reconstruction, I’d quickly get a second opinion. Those are only necessary in severe cases and other solutions are tried first.

Often jaw pain can be caused by teeth grinding or clenching. Patients may not even recognize they’re doing it, especially if it only occurs while they’re sleeping. In that case, wearing a simple custom-fitted night guard is all you need to solve the problem.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Botox is good for wrinkles, but what about for TMJ pain/migraines?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’ve been dealing with TMJ for many years and also many treatments that never seem to work. I was just about at my wits end when I read some information about Botox being used successfully to treat myofascial pain and migraines caused by TMJ. And of course, I can’t help but consider the cosmetic benefits, too. Can any dentist administer Botox, and if not, how do find someone who can? — Chonda

Chonda,
If you suffer from TMJ pain and/or migraines, Botox has been found to relax the masseter and/or temporalis muscles. It must be placed in several spots in the belly of the muscles and if done correctly, you will notice a difference pretty quickly. It’s important that any TMJ treatment be done by a TMJ specialist — a maxillofacial surgeon, oral surgeon, or general dentist with an extensive background in TMJ. They will be able to assess your bite, understand the underlying causes of your TMJ and they might even have experience with injecting Botox. If not, ask if they work closely with a professional that does. It’s extremely important to do your research before making any sort of decision to move forward. Find out if your provider does this type of treatment, how many patients per month, and what the outcomes were. Best of luck!

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Dentist says I need an Anterior Repositioning Splint… what is it?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’ve been seeing a dentist for jaw pain and at my last appointment he mentioned fitting me for an Anterior Repositioning Splint. He didn’t really tell me much about it or how it will help me. Is it made out of plastic and is it very big? What will it do? — Jeremiah

Jeremiah,
Dentists often prescribe an anterior repositioning splint (ARS) to re-position or realign the condyles (in basic terms, the condyles are the hinge of the jaw). It treats disc displacement by helping place your jaw joints into a more normal position. If you experience clicks or lock jaw, the ARS will allow your lower jaw and temporomandibular joints to move into a position that reduce those symptoms.

The splint is made of acrylic and typically worn all the time for several months. It can affect speech if it’s worn on your top arch, but the good news is that if you can get through the 3-4 months, your jaw should be in the correct position and you can stop wearing it. The ARS will help your muscles and ligaments relax so you should also see a reduction in grinding or clenching. This type of appliance should only be used for the amount of time recommended by your dentist as it could cause changes to your bite if worn too long.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.