14812 Physicians Ln #262 | Rockville, MD 20850

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Dr. John Savukinas, General Dentist in Rockville MD

Effective TMJ Treatment for Jaw Pain

Eliminate jaw pain by breaking teeth grinding habits.

Effects of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding (bruxism) is a condition that affects millions of people around the country and if left untreated, can lead to a number of oral health and jaw problems, including TMJ issues. If you need treatment for a jaw disorder or already have damaged teeth because of a teeth grinding habit, schedule your appointment with Dr. John Savukinas for a comprehensive evaluation.

Of children grind their teeth.

Of adults grind their teeth.

Recognizing Teeth Grinding Symptoms

Dr. Savukinas has been recognized as a leader in his field and specializes in TMJ treatment to eliminate jaw pain and other symptoms. He is a faculty member and instructor at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, and enjoys sharing his knowledge and best practices on a variety of dental procedures and oral health issues, including TMJ treatment.

Many patients experiencing jaw pain do not realize they have a teeth grinding habit and may need extensive TMJ treatment or therapies to restore their jaw health. Dr. Savukinas can recognize the symptoms of teeth grinding, provide a diagnosis, and recommend effective treatment options.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

Many people unconsciously grind their teeth when they are stressed or angry. Others may grind their teeth at night. If stress is the main cause, taking anxiety medication, practicing yoga, and learning relaxation exercises can help. Other causes of teeth grinding that might be causing jaw pain include:

Improper Tooth Alignment

TMJ Disorder

Parkinson's or Huntington's Disease

High Levels of Anxiety

Tense or Stressful Situations

Unresolved Anger

Common Signs of Teeth Grinding:

Teeth that are chipped
Damaged tooth enamel
Tooth sensitivity

Frequent earaches
Pain around the face
Significant tightness around the jaw

Teeth that have flattened edges
Headaches
Injury to the tissues inside of the cheeks

Treatment Options

Dr. Savukinas offers several options for patients affected by bruxism and those who have jaw pain. The first step is to break the teeth grinding habit, which is followed by tooth restoration and repair procedures that help rebuild the worn teeth and improve overall jaw function.

Break the Habit of Teeth Grinding – We can help you break the teeth grinding habit by fitting you with a customized occlusal guard that you wear at night or during high stress situations, such as driving.

Bite Adjustment – Dr. Savukinas may perform one of several procedures or treatments to restore proper functioning of the bite. These may include adjusting the tooth structure (occlusal adjustment), orthodontic treatment with invisible braces, customized tooth replacement with dental implants, veneers, crowns, or bridges.

Cosmetic Options to Restore the Teeth – Dr. Savukinas is an experienced cosmetic dentist and can work to repair both the aesthetic and functional damage caused by teeth grinding. You may be a good candidate for dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or tooth colored bonding once you have overcome the teeth grinding habit.

Learn more about TMJ treatment options and ways to relieve jaw pain by scheduling your appointment with Dr. Savukinas in Rockville, MD today.

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What You Need To Know About TMJ

If you think you might have TMJ it's important to learn what you can do to help prevent and treat it. Complete the form below to download your FREE copy of our What You Need To Know About TMJ article.