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Artisan Dentistry's Blog

A Deep Dive Into TMJ With a Newburyport Specialist TMJ Dentist

Oct 25th, 2023

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge-like structure that connects your jaw to your skull. For many, it functions seamlessly, allowing us to eat, talk, and express ourselves without a hitch. However, for some individuals, issues with the TMJ can lead to pain, discomfort, and a myriad of other symptoms. Enter the specialized world of TMJ-focused dentistry.

Who is a TMJ Specialist?

A TMJ specialist is a dentist who has undergone additional training to diagnose and treat disorders related to the temporomandibular joint. This training equips them with a deep understanding of the complex structures and mechanisms of the jaw, and the most effective treatment options available. Our TMJ specialist in Newburyport, Dr. Paul Mathew, has received advanced training from the Las Vegas Institute and specializes in treating TMJ pain using neuromuscular dentistry.

Why See a TMJ Specialist?

TMJ disorders can manifest in a variety of ways. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
  • A clicking or locking sensation in the jaw
  • Ear pain or ringing
  • Headaches or migraines

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a TMJ specialist, like th eone in our Newburyport dental office. They have the tools, knowledge, and expertise to provide targeted treatments that general dentists may not offer.

TMJ Treatment Options

While some dentists offer a simple mouthguard in hopes of solving the issue. Dr. Mathew is trained in treating advanced cases of TMJ. His focus is on relieving jaw muscle spasms and pain using a process called ULF-TENS (Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation). This can be done in conjunction with using an oral appliance that can help stabilize the bite. Additionally, he can offer strategies for long term TMJ pain management.

TMJ Pain Prevention and Self-care

While seeing a specialist is crucial, there are also steps you can take at home to manage and prevent TMJ symptoms:

  • Avoid excessive jaw movements (like wide yawning or gum chewing).
  • Practice stress-reducing techniques, as stress can cause teeth grinding.
  • Use cold or warm packs on the jaw to alleviate pain.
  • Stick to soft foods when symptoms flare up.

TMJ disorders can range from mildly inconvenient to severely debilitating. No matter the degree of severity, seeing a TMJ specialist like Dr. Paul Mathew, can help with TMJ pain. If you are interested in setting up a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office in Newburyport.

Warranty

Our 5 Year Warranty

Anyone can train to be a technician, but few have the talent to become an artist. That’s why Dr. Mathew is able to guarantee his cosmetic dentistry work for a full 5 years. If anything goes wrong with the work, Dr. Mathew will fix it free of charge, as long as you continue with your regular 6 month preventative care cleaning and check up for the duration of the warranty.

Treatment Room

Individualized
Treatment Rooms

Our individualized treatment rooms and operatories provide patients with maximum privacy and comfort. The treatment rooms were built specifically with your comfort in mind.

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Here at Paul Mathew, D.D.S. we work diligently to protect our patients' privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has identified as electronically protected healthcare information or ePHI. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the "I agree" box, and electronically making an appointment request, you acknowledge that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Paul Mathew, D.D.S. will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may illegally intercept this communication. By accepting these terms and conditions and sending this request via our Internet portal, you accept the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. If you do not accept the terms and conditions, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

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Here at Paul Mathew, D.D.S. we work diligently to protect our patients' privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has identified as electronically protected healthcare information or ePHI. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the "I agree" box, and electronically making an appointment request, you acknowledge that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Paul Mathew, D.D.S. will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may illegally intercept this communication. By accepting these terms and conditions and sending this request via our Internet portal, you accept the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. If you do not accept the terms and conditions, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

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The information presented here is not intended or implied to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should be used for informational purposes only.