TMD/TMJ

Pursuing the Perfect Smile

TMD/TMJ

Are you experiencing persistent jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing? You may be dealing with TMD/TMJ in Saugus, a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint. At Stephen Petinge DMD, we understand how debilitating this pain can be and are here to help. Offering comprehensive care and effective treatments, Dr. Stephen Petinge and his team provide solutions to ease TMD/TMJ symptoms and help you regain a pain-free life.

What is TMD/TMJ?

TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, a condition that impacts the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connecting your jaw to your skull. The TMJ enables essential movements such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. When there is dysfunction or strain in this joint, it can lead to significant discomfort and a range of related symptoms.

TMD/TMJ disorders can occur due to various reasons, such as:

  • Jaw injury or trauma
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Arthritis affecting the joint
  • Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
  • Stress-induced tension

These issues can disrupt your daily life, challenging even simple tasks like eating or speaking. At Stephen Petinge DMD, we take a personalized approach to diagnosing and treating TMD/TMJ, helping our patients move towards a healthier and more comfortable life.

Symptoms of TMD/TMJ

TMD/TMJ symptoms can vary widely and may be mistaken for other conditions. Knowing what to look for is crucial so you can seek timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain and tenderness
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving the jaw
  • Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
  • Locking of the jaw, making it hard to open or close your mouth
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Ear pain or a sense of fullness in the ears
  • Facial pain or swelling
  • Neck and shoulder stiffness

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to consult Dr. Stephen Petinge for a professional evaluation. With his expertise and gentle approach, even the most apprehensive patients feel at ease seeking care.

TMD/TMJ Treatments We Offer in Saugus

At Stephen Petinge DMD, we offer a variety of cutting-edge treatments tailored to your specific needs. After thoroughly assessing your symptoms and medical history, Dr. Petinge will recommend the best action to relieve your pain and restore function. Here’s how we help:

1. Occlusal Guards (Mouthguards)

Custom-designed mouthguards can alleviate pressure on your jaw caused by grinding or clenching. These devices help relax the TMJ and protect your teeth from damage.

2. Stress Management Techniques

Tension and stress can contribute to jaw pain and grinding. We incorporate stress management strategies into your treatment plan, helping you reduce discomfort while improving your overall well-being.

3. Tailored Home Exercises

We guide gentle jaw exercises to strengthen and relax the TMJ muscles. These exercises are designed to complement professional treatment and enhance recovery.

With each treatment designed around your unique needs, we aim to provide lasting relief and improve your quality of life.

Why Early Treatment is Essential

Ignoring TMD/TMJ symptoms can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic pain, muscle deterioration, or further damage to your jaw and teeth. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to preventing these issues.

At Stephen Petinge DMD, we view oral health as essential to your overall well-being. Addressing TMD/TMJ for Saugus patients alleviates discomfort, restores function, and enhances daily life. With convenient care in Saugus, there’s no reason to delay seeking treatment.

TMD/TMJ in Saugus

If you’ve been living with TMD/TMJ symptoms, relief is closer than you think. At Stephen Petinge DMD, our experienced and compassionate team is ready to provide you the care you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Stephen Petinge and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free smile.