Treating TMJ Dysfunction

Unlike other conditions, there are a number of different factors which can contribute to the development of TMJ dysfunction. In Wellesley, TMJ specialist Dr. Murad Padamsee is dedicated to helping regain full oral function and overcome the pain and discomfort cause by TMJ problems. When treating this condition, our goal is to create a conservative yet comprehensive treatment solution.

As many of the symptoms and side effects of TMDs affect oral function and wellness, our Wellesley dentist often uses conservative dental treatments that provide the dual benefit of improving your smile and jaw function. In addition to recommending physical therapy to increase motion in your jaw, our commonly recommended TMJ treatments include:

Oral Appliances
Rather than sending patients immediately into more advanced treatments, Dr. Padamsee starts patients with a custom-fit oral appliance. Similar in size to a retainer, these specialized devices are designed to push the jaw into a more comfortable, stabilized position that alleviates pain and facilitates normal function. Within just a few weeks, patients are able to notice a significant difference in their bite and function.

Oral appliances are designed to fit each dentition precisely. At our Wellesley dental practice, K7 Jaw Tracking technology is utilized to measure the movements of your jaw and create an appliance that will stabilize the overall alignment of jaw. This added precision ensures effective, lasting results.

Orthodontics
The alignment of teeth can be a contributing factor to the development of TMJ dysfunction. Bite misalignment can also encourage bruxism, another potential cause of TMDs. To thoroughly address this issue, our Wellesley TMJ specialist may recommend comprehensive orthodontics as a means of improving the dentition, preventing overnight grinding (bruxing), and to realign the jaw. If extensive grinding has already compromised the strength of individual teeth, Dr. Padamsee may create a multi-faceted restoration plan that includes dental crowns to reinforce damaged teeth or implants to replace seriously worn or missing teeth.

Jaw Surgery
Due to the invasive nature of the procedure, jaw surgery is recommended only in the most severe cases of TMJ dysfunction and when all other alternatives have been exhausted. As this treatment cannot be reversed once started, our TMJ dental specialist strongly recommends trying all other conservative options prior to referring patients for surgery.

Treating TMJ in Wellesley
If you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, facial pain, jaw clicking or locking, and difficulty performing basic oral function, we encourage you to contact our Wellesley dental team today. TMJ specialist Dr. Murad Padamsee has over 30 years of experience providing patients like yourself with conservative, highly successful treatment solutions. To learn more about TMJ, common symptoms, and treatment options, contact our team today.

Did you know Apples can clean your teeth when a toothbrush isn’t handy?

We've all heard the expression "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." But perhaps that should be changed to dentist. In addition to being good for your health, apples are also quite good for your teeth. In fact, if you find yourself without a toothbrush, an apple can fill in nicely.

Apples actually act like toothbrushes because of their fiber-rich flesh. This works like a scrub on not only your teeth, but your tongue and gums as well. An apple can also help remove food particles that are hiding out between your teeth and sticking to your gums.

As well as cleaning your teeth, because they are mildly acidic and slightly astringent, apples can also help get rid of plaque and stains. On top of that, apples can freshen breath. Is there nothing this super fruit can't do? The next time you have an after lunch meeting and forgot your toothbrush, head down to the cafeteria and grab an apple instead.

Just another reason to drink wine!

Wine lovers everywhere, rejoice! Already known for its health benefits, research shows red wine protects against cavities, too! A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry explores the effect a selection of red wines and grape-seed extract has on communities of disease-causing bacteria, called biofilms. Biofilms erode the teeth causing gum disease. Gum disease is a result of the build up of plaque and tartar on the teeth, and in the soft tissue of the gums – pockets of infection cause inflammation and discomfort and pain. But some treatments can be abrasive, and side effects of some mouthwashes include discoloration of the gums, and altering taste.

In order to understand how effective red wine is in preventing the growth of biofilm, researchers developed a biofilm model of plaque that combined five types of bacteria most commonly found in gum disease and tooth decay. The biofilm cultures were then dipped in numerous varieties of wine – with and without alcohol – for a couple of minutes. The results showed that all red wine and red wine containing grape seed extract were more likely to get rid of the bacteria. Of course, the study wasn't designed with excessive drinking in mind; everything in moderation! Rather, as the researchers said, "these findings contribute to existing knowledge about the beneficial effect of red wines (one of the most important products of agriculture and food industries) on human health." We'll drink to that – cheers!

Welcome To Our Blog

We're excited to announce the official launch of our Dr. Murad Padamsee blog.

We'll be posting helpful dental tips, news from the dental industry, news from our practice, and more about the latest in dentistry.

We built our practice on the notion that we're there for our patients when they need us and we want our online presence to be a reflection of that principle. We hope this blog provides an extra level of service to our current and future patients.

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Here's to your best oral health ever!