Dentist in Independence, MO


Do you have popping or locking in your jaw? You may benefit from TMJ treatment in Independence, Missouri. Dr. Robert N. Hanson and Dr. Steve Blum use this service to examine the placement of your bite and adjust the position of your jaw. Want more information? Schedule a consultation with our dentists and team at Hanson Dentistry by calling us at 816-373-5606.

TMJ therapies are treatments designed to correct the jaw misalignment or other issues causing pain or discomfort in your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. These disorders, known as TMD, typically occur when the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull suffers an injury or shifts out of alignment, whether that is due to trauma to the head, neck or jaw, teeth grinding (bruxism), or arthritis, making it difficult or even painful to open and close your mouth.

You may have a TMJ disorder if you suffer from any of the following:

  • Frequent headaches
  • Stiffness or discomfort in the neck, shoulders or ears
  • Difficulty chewing, talking or opening the mouth wide
  • Popping or clicking sounds in the jaw
  • Locked jaw

The recommendations our dentists will make will depend on your specific symptoms and the severity of your TMJ disorder, and they may range from simple muscle exercises or dietary changes to a mouth or night guard or, in severe cases, jaw surgery. Our team will talk with you about your experiences with TMD and help design a custom treatment plan that will help you find relief.

If you have recently experienced an injury involving the head, neck or shoulders, we recommend prioritizing medical care with a family physician or emergency room before scheduling with our dentists.

To learn more and plan your visit to our office for TMJ therapy, call our team and plan your appointment today.

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