TMJ Treatment With NTI

The temporomandibular joints, or TMJ, are essential components of your mouth. Located at the points where the mandible meets the skull, the TMJ, and the muscles ligaments and bones that are connected to it, are responsible for the movement of your mouth. The TMJ also have discs, which absorb the pressures put on the joints. When the TMJ are irritated, they become inflamed, and this can cause a significant amount of pain. At Neu Family Dental, we can help to treat certain causes of TMJ with NTI.

TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder is a broad term that is used to describe some different issues that affect the health of your jaw and the temporomandibular joints. These issues not only cause you significant pain, but they can also affect the functions of your mouth. It can become difficult, if not impossible, to bite, chew, and speak. Even just opening your mouth can be the source of substantial pain, greatly affecting your overall quality of life.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

There are several different causes of TMJ disorder, including:

•	Facial trauma. Direct facial injuries, which can result from accidents such as sports injuries, an automobile collision, or even a fall, can irritate the joints. Whiplash can also cause the temporary dislocation of the jaw, which can cause small tears or irritation.
•	Arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes the degradation of the cartilage at the joints, including those in your jaw. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which your joints become inflamed as a result of your immune system attacking them.
•	Bruxism. This is a condition in which you grind and clench your teeth. Bruxism is frequently caused by stress. Stress causes all of your muscles to tense. In your mouth, tense muscles cause you to clench your teeth, putting excessive pressure on your teeth and jaws. Bruxism can also be caused by alignment issues of the teeth or jaws.

NTI Night Guards

If your TMJ pain is caused by bruxism, you may be recommended to make lifestyle changes, such as avoiding stimulants or practicing relaxation techniques. If these techniques are not enough, we can help with an NTI night guard. Grinding and clenching are more common at night when you have no control over the muscles in your body. A night guard is an oral device that is worn while you sleep. It is a custom fit device, made from an impression of your mouth, and is designed to absorb the impact that the muscles in your mouth exert. It also holds your jaw in proper alignment, which can aid in preventing grinding. While night guards cannot eliminate bruxism, they can help to provide protection, easing the symptoms and giving your jaw and TMJ some much-needed relief.

We offer an NTI night guard to help alleviate the symptoms of your TMJ disorder. NTI stands for nociceptive trigeminal inhibition, is a small oral appliance that is designed specifically for your mouth. It is worn over your top two teeth, and aids in preventing your upper and lower molars from touching while you sleep. It also lessens the tension in your jaw by triggering the nerve that causes your muscles to relax.

If your TMJ pain is caused by grinding and clenching, an NTI night guard may be the solution. Call Neu Family Dental today to learn more and schedule your consultation at (847) 230-9143.

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573 Dundee Avenue
East Dundee, IL 60118

(847) 230-9143

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