You deserve a life free from the disruptive pain of TMD. Nestled in the heart of Carlsbad, CA, La Costa Dental Excellence offers compassionate care for those suffering from jaw pain, headaches and other symptoms associated with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). Dr. Stephen Dankworth emphasizes, “We picture a world where our patients are empowered with the knowledge and treatments to alleviate their pain efficiently.”
What is TMD?
TMD affects the temporomandibular joints, which are vital for functions like speaking, chewing and yawning. This disorder is often mistaken for TMJ, the actual joint, but TMD encompasses the pain and dysfunction associated with these areas. Common symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, including:
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth
- Pain in the jaw, face or neck
- Difficulty chewing or a feeling of the jaw being “locked”
How TMD Affects Your Life
Besides causing physical pain, TMD can disrupt daily activities and affect mental well-being. Individuals may avoid eating certain foods, talking, or even laughing due to discomfort. If untreated, it could lead to more severe issues like tooth damage from clenching and grinding, which we aim to address proactively at our practice.
Our Approach to TMD Treatment
At La Costa Dental Excellence, we offer innovative solutions for managing TMD symptoms, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We thoroughly evaluate your jaw function, symptoms, and medical history to determine the treatment plan that will provide the most effective relief.
We offer modern therapies such as Botox to help ease jaw tension and pain. By relaxing the overactive muscles responsible for clenching and grinding, Botox can provide lasting relief with a minimally invasive approach, often without the need for surgery.
We work to provide not just temporary relief, but long-term solutions that enhance your quality of life. It’s our mission to protect your smile and freedom from discomfort.
Relief and Comfort, Tailored to You
Many patients at La Costa Dental Excellence experience persistent headaches, jaw pain and difficulty chewing, among other symptoms. TMD can show up as clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, pain around the ear, and sometimes, a locked jaw. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment to consult with us for a comprehensive evaluation.
When you visit us at La Costa Dental Excellence, we conduct a thorough examination, which includes discussing your symptoms, examining jaw movements and possibly taking imaging tests like X-rays. This allows us to get a clear picture of your condition and create a personalized treatment plan that aims to alleviate your discomfort and improve function.
We offer several state-of-the-art treatment options tailored to manage TMD effectively. These include oral appliances to prevent clenching and grinding, physical therapy exercises and even Botox injections to relax jaw muscles and reduce tension. Our approach is holistic, aiming not only to relieve pain but also to restore regular jaw function.
Improvement timelines can vary depending on the severity of your condition and your specific treatment plan. Some patients notice relief within a few weeks, while others may take a bit longer. With consistent treatment and follow-up care at La Costa Dental Excellence, you will progressively decrease your symptoms and regain your comfort.
Many insurance plans do cover treatments for TMD, but coverage can vary. Our team at La Costa Dental Excellence is dedicated to helping you understand your benefits and will assist in verifying your insurance details. We also offer financing options through CareCredit and Cherry Financing. We’re here to help you maximize your benefits and focus on receiving the care you need without added stress.
Take Action To Relieve Your Jaw Pain
Are you ready to live a life free from the complications of TMD? Reach out to La Costa Dental Excellence at (760) 633-3033 or visit us at 7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd #106, Carlsbad, CA 92009. Begin your journey to relief and well-being with a team that cares.