TMJ/TMD Dental Treatment

What is TMJ/TMD?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, TMJ/TMD, are inflammations in the jaw commonly caused by regular teeth grinding that result in the swelling of the jaw joint. As this occurs, muscles become displaced and can adversely affect the teeth, gums and bone structures of the mouth if left untreated. People with TMJ/ TMD sometimes experience a clicking or popping sound when opening and closing their mouths. Due to the nerve pressure cause by muscle displacement, TMJ/TMD is often accompanied by frequent headaches, neck aches, and in some cases, tooth sensitivity. Serious conditions resulting from TMJ/TMD include improperly aligned joints, dislocated jaws or even an arthritic condition of the jaw joint.

TMJ Dental Treatment

Some dental treatments for TMJ/TMD include muscle relaxants, aspirin, biofeedback, or wearing a small plastic appliance in the mouth during sleep. Dr. Smith and her talented team of dental professionals are highly skilled in recommending the best course of action for TMJ treatment to address any pain you may be experiencing.

The NTI Suppression System – A Specialty of Boston Dentist Dr. Budd

One of Dr. Budd’s special interests is helping patients who suffer from TMJ (jaw joint) disorders. At Dental Health and Wellness Boston, we can help you deal with TMJ-related migraines using the NTI Tension Suppression System, a non-surgical, non-drug device approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Tension headache and migraine sufferers often exhibit sore and tender scalp muscles caused by repeated intense contractions during sleep. NTI has proven effective in significantly reducing headache and migraine related episodes.

The NTI device is custom-fitted on the patient’s upper teeth suppressing the muscle contraction intensity. The NTI is small, comfortable, and worn only when sleeping. When used as directed, there is no risk of side effects. To learn more, please see the TMJ and Migraine Therapy page in our Wellness section.