TMJ Syndrome
Dr. Vandewater has been specially trained as a Dawson dentist to analyze bite problems and related disorders of the TMJ’s (jaw joints).
TMJ
Millions of people suffer from chronic face and neck pain as well as recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD. Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull. These joints get a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.
If you’re suffering from Temporomandibular Disorder, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- pain in the jaw area
- pain, ringing or stuffiness in the ears
- frequent headaches or neck aches
- clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
- swelling on the sides of the face
- muscle spasms in the jaw area
- a change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
- locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Dentist’s Office Hours
Monday through Thursday
8:00 am to 5 pm
Dr. Vandewater’s office is conveniently located in West County on Clarkson Road just south of Clayton Road and the Daniel Boone Library.
Dawson Dentists Make a Difference
Dr. Vandewater is a Dawson dentist, and is trained to analyze and treat bite problems and related disorders of the TMJ’s (jaw joints). Dawson dentists pride themselves on being physicians of the total masticatory system and are often considered the “go to” dentist who can solve problems of comfort or function that are above the level of usual and customary dental services.
Nightguards
If you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches or headaches, or if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have a common condition called “bruxism.” Many people don’t even know that they grind their teeth because it often occurs during sleep. Bruxism can lead to broken teeth, cracked teeth or even tooth loss if it goes uncorrected.
There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxim: nightguards. Nightguards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth-grinding causes over time. Custom-made by your dentist, a nightguard is inserted over the top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.