TMJ Treatment in Northbrook, IL

Temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly referred to as TMJ, affect millions of Americans each year, causing debilitating jaw pain, persistent headaches, and difficulty performing everyday activities like eating and speaking. At Skale Dental Professionals, we understand how TMJ symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, disrupting everything from your sleep patterns to your ability to enjoy meals with family and friends.

Our experienced team of Northbrook, IL dentists, led by Dr. Darryl and Dr. Ryan Skale, brings over 50 years of combined experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders using advanced technology and proven treatment methods. We take a comprehensive approach to TMJ care, utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including CBCT 3D imaging, to accurately identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

TMJ disorders present differently in each patient, but several key symptoms frequently appear throughout the head and neck region. Recognizing these warning signs can help you seek appropriate treatment before your condition worsens:

• Jaw pain or tenderness, particularly when chewing or speaking
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully or jaw locking in open or closed positions
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving your jaw
• Persistent headaches, especially upon waking in the morning
• Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears without infection
• Facial pain and muscle fatigue after extended talking or chewing
• Neck and shoulder tension as surrounding muscles compensate for jaw dysfunction
• Changes in how your teeth fit together when biting down
• Tooth sensitivity without apparent dental problems

The interconnected nature of the jaw muscles and surrounding structures means TMJ dysfunction can manifest in unexpected ways throughout your head and neck area. Some patients experience only one or two symptoms, while others may deal with multiple issues simultaneously.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective TMJ treatment, which is why we employ comprehensive evaluation techniques at our state-of-the-art Northbrook facility. Our diagnostic process begins with a detailed examination of your jaw function, including range of motion assessment and palpation of the jaw muscles and joints.

We utilize advanced CBCT 3D imaging technology to visualize the temporomandibular joints in unprecedented detail, allowing us to identify structural abnormalities, joint positioning issues, or signs of arthritis that may contribute to your symptoms. This three-dimensional imaging provides crucial information that traditional X-rays cannot capture, enabling us to develop more precise treatment strategies tailored to your specific condition.

Our practice offers multiple treatment approaches to address TMJ disorders effectively. Each treatment plan is customized based on your specific symptoms, severity of condition, and individual needs.

Custom TMJ Orthotics

One of our most effective treatments involves creating custom-fitted oral appliances, also known as TMJ orthotics or splints. These precisely crafted devices help reposition your jaw into a more comfortable alignment, reducing muscle strain and joint pressure.

Unlike over-the-counter guards, our custom orthotics are designed specifically for your bite pattern and jaw structure, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. The appliance works by creating a stable jaw position that allows your muscles to relax and your joints to heal.

Lifestyle and Stress Management

Since stress often contributes to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, we provide guidance on stress management techniques and lifestyle modifications that can complement your TMJ treatment. Simple changes like avoiding hard or chewy foods, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining good posture can significantly impact your recovery process.

We also educate patients on proper jaw positioning and habits that may unknowingly worsen TMJ symptoms. Learning to recognize and modify behaviors like excessive gum chewing, nail biting, or holding your phone between your shoulder and ear can contribute to long-term improvement.

Our family-centered practice combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to provide comprehensive TMJ care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. As a father-son dental team, we understand the importance of treating each patient like family, taking the time to thoroughly explain their condition and treatment options.

Our investment in advanced diagnostic equipment, including digital impressions and 3D imaging, means we can provide more accurate diagnoses and create more effective treatment appliances. We also maintain ongoing relationships with specialists when complex cases require collaborative care, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

The convenience of our new, modern facility means you can receive a comprehensive TMJ evaluation and treatment without the need for multiple referrals or appointments at different locations. Our team coordinates all aspects of your care, from initial diagnosis through ongoing treatment monitoring and adjustments.

Living with TMJ pain doesn’t have to be your norm. Our experienced team at Skale Dental Professionals is committed to helping you find relief from TMJ symptoms and regain your quality of life. Whether you’re entering retirement or already enjoying these golden years, now is the perfect time to address TMJ pain because you still have decades of life left to savor comfortable meals, restful sleep, and pain-free conversations with loved ones.

We understand that every patient’s experience with TMJ is unique, which is why we take the time to develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Don’t let jaw pain, headaches, or other TMJ symptoms continue to impact your daily life. Contact Skale Dental Professionals today at (847) 272-1072 or visit our contact form to schedule your TMJ consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.

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Choose treatments based on your needs, not insurance limits. We accept your coverage and make quality care affordable.