TMJ
Understanding TMJ and TMD
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are responsible for connecting your jaw to your skull and allowing for jaw movement. If a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) develops, you may notice symptoms like:
- Jaw pain and discomfort
- Headaches and earaches
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Clicking and locking of the temporomandibular joints
- Changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
Temporomandibular disorders sometimes resolve on their own after a short time, but if your condition is chronic, you may require the help of a dentist to manage your symptoms.
Treat Your TMJ Disorder Quickly With Our Dentists in Amarillo, TX
If you're tired of living life with TMJ pain, Drs. Tyler L. Pendergrass and Eric S. Wilkie have a comfortable and convenient solution for you. In one trip to our dental office in Amarillo, TX, we can diagnose your condition, develop a treatment plan, and determine if a splint will provide you with the TMJ relief you seek.
We want to help you in the same way we've helped many patients struggling with TMD. If you're ready for relief from your symptoms, contact us online or call:
(806) 358-8801
Receive Fast and Thorough Treatment "I can't think of a better, more efficient and friendly dental firm."
Shelby Babcock
2022
Very friendly staff! Called and asked if they had emergency walk-ins available and I was able to come in that moment. Got there and was greeted with friendly faces. Didn't even finish filling out papers and was called back and that was an amazing experience as well. I was able to get in and out in under an hour. And when I was leaving they all told me to have a great day with smiles on their faces! I will definitely be referring them to any who needs dental care!
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Jim Hutson
2022
I've been a patient at Pendergrass & Wilkie Dentistry for many, many years. I can't think of a better, more efficient and friendly dental firm.
Dentists and techs there are well-trained, thorough, and dedicated to service. I recommend this outstanding practice enthusiastically.
Your TMJ Disorder Diagnosis
To determine if you have a TMJ disorder, our dentists will ask you questions about the symptoms you're experiencing, where you feel pain, and when it occurs. They may also perform an examination or take X-rays.
Examination
Your dentist may examine your jaw, neck, face, and head for tenderness. You may be asked to open your mouth so your dentist can check for signs of grinding, clenching, and bite misalignment. They may ask you to open and close your mouth to check for TMJ popping, clicking, or difficulty moving.
X-Rays
Our dentists may take X-rays of your jaw and TMJs to see the extent of the damage and help confirm that you have a temporomandibular disorder. With X-rays, we will be able to examine the hard and soft tissues around the TMJs, allowing us to diagnose the condition accurately.
Tired of Temporary Remedies? Try a Comfortable Occlusal Splint
While some patients can manage their TMD with anti-inflammatory medication, exercises for the jaw muscles, and lifestyle changes, these quick fixes don't work for everyone. If you want a long-term solution, our dentists can fit you for an occlusal splint and develop a customized treatment plan for you.
An occlusal splint is a type of mouthguard that aims to:
- Provide relief for the pain and discomfort you're experiencing due to your TMD
- Allow the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joints to relax, preventing tooth grinding and alleviating pain
- Retrain your jaws to reduce muscle tension and strain on the temporomandibular joints
Our dentists in Amarillo, TX, can have you fitted for a custom mouthguard that fits comfortably in your mouth and doesn't interfere with your lifestyle.
Making Your Splint to Alleviate Uncomfortable TMJ Symptoms
Though your TMJ treatment plan may require additional dental solutions, like crowns or orthodontics, an occlusal splint can put you on the path to recovery. Receiving a splint will involve several steps:
Every member of our team is focused on providing patients with specialized care tailored to their individual needs and goals.
Has Your TMD Caused Dental Damage? We Have Solutions
If the dysfunction with your TMJs has resulted in dental damage, either cosmetic or functional, our dentists have solutions to restore your teeth and the beauty of your smile.
Veneers
If the grinding and clenching from your TMJ disorder have resulted in chips and cracks in your teeth, we can provide you with lifelike porcelain veneers to conceal these cosmetic concerns and restore your smile to normal.
Dental Crowns
If your temporomandibular disorder has caused extensive tooth damage and worn enamel, our dentists can restore any affected teeth with dental crowns. Crowns may also be used as part of a comprehensive plan for TMD. Our CEREC® technology allows us to create and place crowns in a single appointment.
Dental Implants
If your TMD has resulted in missing teeth, our Amarillo dentists can place dental implants and restorations to address any degree of tooth loss. This can restore both the functionality and appearance of your teeth.
One Patient's Testimonial
"My experience was great I give them higher than a five star ⭐ they go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable and they always ask if u are okay. Very friendly and caring, I would recommend to other people. God bless them all" Bobbie Allen, 5-Star Review
