Advanced TMJ Treatment & Therapy in Charlevoix
Dr. Jay Balasz, DDS is an experienced Dentist in Charlevoix that is highly skilled in diagnosing and treating disorders of the TMJs and facial pain. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex anatomic structure found on either side of the head, connecting the jaw to the skull. Dysfunction of the TMJ can lead to several bothersome conditions such as headaches, facial pain, clicking or crackling sounds (crepitus), and difficulty with opening and closing the mouth properly.
Dr. Balasz has received advanced education in Bioesthetic Dentistry and completed specialized course work at the OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry. His unique and highly specialized skill, allow him to accurately identify the biological factors that lead to jaw pain and precisely hone in on our patients’ needs. Together, Dr. Balasz and our team can create a treatment plan for helping you find lasting relief from your TMJ symptoms.
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
The symptoms of TMJ disorder vary from person to person depending on their condition. Commonly reported symptoms include headaches, neck pain, earaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), pain or tenderness around the jaw joints, popping or clicking noises in one or both sides while talking or eating, difficulty opening and closing the mouth properly, and restricted movement in one or both sides when attempting to open wide. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact Dr. Balasz and our team so you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
The symptoms of TMJ disorder vary from person to person depending on their condition. Commonly reported symptoms include headaches, neck pain, earaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), pain or tenderness around the jaw joints, popping or clicking noises in one or both sides while talking or eating, difficulty opening and closing the mouth properly, and restricted movement in one or both sides when attempting to open wide. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact Dr. Balasz and our team so you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing TMJ Disorders
In order to diagnose your TMJ Disorder, Dr. Balasz will need to conduct a comprehensive oral health evaluation. During your appointment, he will check for tenderness or discomfort around the jaw joints. Additionally, Dr. Balasz may recommend special tests and imaging such as x-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. These tests will help Dr. Balasz identify any misalignments and biological factors that could be causing your symptoms as well as signs of inflammation or damage to bones in your jaw area. After testing has been completed, Dr. Balasz can make an accurate diagnosis about what type of treatment would be most effective for you.
Diagnosing TMJ Disorders
In order to diagnose your TMJ Disorder, Dr. Balasz will need to conduct a comprehensive oral health evaluation. During your appointment, he will check for tenderness or discomfort around the jaw joints. Additionally, Dr. Balasz may recommend special tests and imaging such as x-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. These tests will help Dr. Balasz identify any misalignments and biological factors that could be causing your symptoms as well as signs of inflammation or damage to bones in your jaw area. After testing has been completed, Dr. Balasz can make an accurate diagnosis about what type of treatment would be most effective for you.
TMJ Disorder Treatment Options
Treatment for these disorders varies widely depending on patient’s symptoms and severity of their condition. For milder cases, Dr. Balasz may recommend conservative methods such as changing your diet to softer foods and certain jaw exercises. Dr. Balasz may also prescribe bite splint therapy to reduce muscle spasms and stabilize the jaw joints. For more severe cases, Dr. Balasz may suggest advanced treatments such as medications like anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or physical therapy exercises that target specific muscles used during chewing. Surgery is usually only recommended when all other treatment options have failed.
Find Relief from Your TMJ Pain & Symptoms
Dr. Balasz and our team are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from painful TMJ dysfunction and facial pain. Whether your symptoms have been caused by arthritis, trauma from injury or surgery, or structural issues within your jaw joints, we will work with skill and dedication to help you achieve lasting relief and better health. We proudly serve all of Charlevoix County and the surrounding areas including Bay Harbor, East Jordan, Boyne City, Boyne Falls, Ellsworth, and Central Lake as well as all of Emmet County including Petoskey and Harbor Springs. Call (231) 547-2377 today to contact our office and learn more about our services for TMJ treatment in Charlevoix.
