What is the TMJ disorder, and what is the best way of treating it for Kirkland, WA patients?

The TMJ, or “temporomandibular joint,” is the jaw joint that hinges the upper and lower jaw and allows the mouth to open and close. It is also involved in speaking and chewing. Sometimes, the muscles and joints may malfunction, causing patients to experience problems such as lockjaw, popping, and discomfort. Dr. Ann Kelley and her team at Kingsgate Dental work hard with patients to help them find a solution based on the severity of their condition. If you are looking for a dentist “near me” that offers oral appliances for treating TMJ disorder, you can look no further than Dr. Ann Kelley.

What are the symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joint can cause any of the below issues in patients who have this condition:

• Locking of the jaw in the open or closed position
• The discomfort of the muscles around the jaw joint
• Pain and discomfort radiating from the shoulders through the neck
• Clicking, popping, or snapping of the joint when chewing or speaking
• Chronic pain in the jaw area that cannot be managed with over-the-counter pain medications

What can be done for TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Ann Kelley often suggests that patients work directly with her team to determine if oral appliance therapy is the most beneficial treatment option. Oral appliance therapy requires the patient to wear a custom mouthguard at night that helps in reducing the tension that is often caused by this condition, referred to as bruxism. It also minimizes the stress on the jaw joint and protects the natural teeth from any unwanted wear and tear from the condition. These appliances are made to fit specifically for the patient to reduce common problems associated with TMJ disorder.

Learn more about solutions for TMJ/TMD with our Kirkland, WA area dentist

Patients who are ready to address their condition with an experienced provider are welcome to connect with Dr. Ann Kelley and her staff at Kingsgate Dental. Patients can call the office at (425) 385-0080 and find out more about the use of a specialized mouthguard. The office is located at 12308 NE 144th Street and is accepting new patients and families in the community seeking quality dental care. 

Ann Kelley, DDS

Dr. Ann Kelley is a graduate of the Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. She highly values the comfort of her patients, and places the needs of the patient above her convenience. Her dental clinic is built to bring the best and most comfortable dental experience to all her patients. She builds relationships with her patients based on trust and always acts to safeguard this trust.