Skip to main content

TMJ Dentistry

Come to Smallwood Dental Solutions for Harrisonburg TMJ Treatment

Stop Putting Up with Jaw Pain

Many people suffer quietly with migraines, jaw pain, and neck pain without knowing the cause. Chances are the source is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) that affects the muscles, joints, and nerves involved with the jaw. Often, the cause of such issues can be unclear, but among the factors contributing to them are clenching and/or grinding of the teeth during sleep, trauma to the jaw, and arthritis. Dr. Smallwood is a TMJ dentist in Rockingham, Harrisonburg, and The Shenandoah Valley who can help you identify TMD and help get you out of pain.

Schedule Online
Come to Smallwood Dental Solutions for Harrisonburg TMJ Treatment

Symptoms

You’ll notice that the symptoms listed here could be symptoms of conditions other than a TMD; that’s why you need to have a jaw problem professionally diagnosed. Possible symptoms include:

  • Headaches, even at the migraine level
  • Pain behind the eyes that also affects the face, shoulder, neck, and/or back
  • Earaches or ear ringing
  • Clicking or popping jaw
  • Lockjaw
  • Restricted mouth movement
  • Clenching or grinding of your teeth
  • A change in the alignment of your bite

Treatment Options

Since TMD can have varying levels of severity, there are various treatment options available (any of which should be combined with a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods):

  • Custom Occlusal Guard: This is a custom-fitted, custom-molded guard worn over your teeth while sleeping to ease the effects of clenching and/or grinding; we fit those right here in the office.
  • Chiropractic Referral: Chiropractic treatment can be very helpful in relaxing muscles and relieving joint stress.
  • Physical Therapy: Retraining the jaw through physical therapy is another proven method of achieving relief.
  • Oral Surgeon Referral: Some TMD cases require surgical intervention; in those cases, we will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon.

Our Patients Love us!

"

I’ve been a regular with Dr. Smallwood since they first came to Harrisonburg some years ago and I can highly recommend them. Where would my teeth be without them?

" - Skip T.
"

I have been going to this practice for ten years. They have always shown kindness, friendliness, and caring. Thank you for taking the time, and your expertise in guiding me to a healthier smile.

" - Jeannie H.
"

I enjoyed every minute of my appointment. Everyone is so nice. They not only deliver superb dental care, they treat the patient as a real human person, not just a mouth. I went home inspired, threw out the peanut brittle, and started to faithfully use my waterpik.

" - Susan A.
Read More