Bridges and TMJ Treatment

At the office of Dr. Stephen J. Menke, we offer a range of treatments for patients that have missing teeth or jaw problems. Bridges and TMJ treatment may be offered together because dental bridges can take the stress off the jaws when teeth are missing.

Dental Bridges in Joplin, MO

If you are looking to restore gaps in your smile where teeth have been extracted, a dental bridge may be a restorative option to consider. A dental bridge is a row of teeth that is mounted onto existing teeth with hollow crowns. People who are at risk of TMJ or already have issues due to missing teeth may be good candidates for a dental bridge. This is because missing teeth can change how the jaw closes and opens when you chew your food or speak.

Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?

Patients that have missing teeth and an otherwise healthy mouth are usually good candidates for a dental bridge. In order for a bridge to be successful, there must be two support teeth that are stable and healthy enough to withstand the added pressure from the bridge.

How are dental bridges installed?

Dental bridges are mounted to surrounding teeth. Therefore, the support teeth are first prepared for placement of the bridge, and then the crowns are bonded to them. Before the bridge is made, the dentist will take a series of impressions that the dental lab will use to make sure the bridge mounts in place properly.

TMJ treatment in Joplin, MO

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) is a condition that affects how your jaw opens and moves when you chew or speak. People who have TMJ can experience a lot of pain and discomfort, which is related to inflammation and displacement of the hinged joints in the jaw.

How do you know if you need TMJ treatment?

TMJ can present with several uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, popping when you open and close your mouth, and even the jaw getting locked. Patients often believe their jaw is misaligned, but have no idea that TMJ is to blame or that the condition can be addressed by a dentist.

What does TMJ treatment involve?

TMJ treatment can involve different approaches depending on the severity of the problem. Mild to moderate cases of TMJ can often be treated with physical therapy, medications, or devices like splints and mouthguards. The most severe cases of TMJ may require surgery or other treatments to correct. In the event the TMJ is related to missing teeth, a dental bridge may help.

Talk to a Joplin Dentist About Your Oral Health Concerns

From TMJ treatment to dental bridges, we do our best to give our patients access to the treatments and procedures they need. Reach out to the office of Dr. Stephen J. Menke to schedule a consultation.