5 Pros of At-Home Teeth Whitening

1. Convenience

At-home whitening lets you brighten your smile on your own schedule, without dental appointments.

2. Lower Upfront Cost

Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are typically more affordable than professional whitening options.

3. Easily Accessible

At-home whitening kits are widely available, whether you shop in person or online.

4. Gradual Results

Some people prefer a slower, more subtle whitening process rather than an immediately noticeable change.

5. Good For Mild Stains

Surface discoloration from coffee, soda, or wine may respond reasonably well to consistent at-home use.

5 Cons of At-Home Teeth Whitening

1. Limited Effectiveness 

Most at-home products contain lower concentrations of whitening agents, resulting in less noticeable or uneven results.

2. Inconsistent Results

Teeth with restorations or deeper intrinsic stains may whiten unevenly (or not at all).

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Using at-home whiteners improperly or excessively can result in tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or temporarily weakened enamel.

4. Gum Irritation

Ill-fitting trays or too much whitening gel can irritate or burn your gum tissue.

5. No Professional Oversight

Underlying dental issues, such as cavities, enamel erosion, or gum disease, may worsen if tooth whitening is done without a professional evaluation first.

Why Professional Teeth Whitening May Be the Better Option

Professional teeth whitening performed by a dentist provides better, more reliable results in a controlled and safe setting. The treatment is customized to your teeth, allowing for even whitening while minimizing potential sensitivity and protecting your gums. Your dentist can also address deeper or more stubborn stains that over-the-counter products cannot remove.

Learn More About Professional Teeth Whitening

While at-home teeth whitening may be a great way to address mild discoloration or occasionally refresh your smile, professional whitening remains the best option for faster, longer-lasting, and safer results. To explore your professional teeth-whitening options, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

The post The Pros and Cons of At-Home Teeth Whitening appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Dental Fluorosis

Dental fluorosis occurs when teeth are exposed to excessive fluoride while they are still forming and commonly happens in childhood when teeth are still developing. While fluoride plays a vital role in preventing cavities, overexposure can interfere with the development of tooth enamel, resulting in white spots or streaks on the teeth [1]. Fluorosis is primarily a cosmetic issue and does not affect the health or function of the teeth.

Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia is a developmental condition where the enamel doesn’t develop properly and there is not enough of it to adequately protect the teeth [2]. This defect, which happens during critical stages in tooth enamel formation, can leave people susceptible to decay and might cause noticeable white spots on teeth. Enamel hypoplasia can result from nutritional deficiencies, high fevers during tooth development stages, or certain medications.

Poor Oral Hygiene or Diet

Many people don’t realize that white spots on the teeth can actually be an early sign of tooth decay. Whether from poor oral hygiene, diet, or enamel erosion, bright white spots can be areas where the enamel has worn away and the underlying dentin is showing through, which can leave teeth vulnerable to cavities [3].

Addressing White Spots on Teeth

If you have white spots on your teeth, several treatment options are available. These include:

• Professional teeth whitening. This procedure can lighten the entire tooth, reducing the appearance of white spots.
• Microabrasion. This minimally invasive treatment involves the removal of a microscopic layer of enamel, improving the overall tooth appearance.
• Fluoride treatments. Topical fluoride can help remineralize the teeth and reduce the appearance of white spots, especially if caused by minor demineralization.
• Veneers or bonding. For severe cases, cosmetic options like dental veneers or bonding can cover up the spots and restore a natural look.

Worried About White Spots? Contact Your Dentist

If you’re concerned about white spots on your teeth, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for a comprehensive examination and personalized care plan. There are many treatment options available to help make your smile a more uniform color to increase your confidence and potentially even your oral health!

Sources:

1. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/fluorosis
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/enamel-hypoplasia
3. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay/more-info/tooth-decay-process#how-does-a-cavity-develop 

The post What Causes White Spots on My Teeth? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Professional Teeth Whitening: In-Office Treatments

Professional teeth whitening refers to treatments administered by a dentist in a clinical setting. These in-office procedures typically offer the fastest and most noticeable results due to the high concentration of whitening agents used. They’re also considered one of the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth [1].

In-office whitening also gives patients greater control over the shade of white they choose for their smile, and a dramatic difference can be seen in just a single appointment, which typically takes about 60-90 minutes. With in-office whitening, you go home that same day with a brighter smile!

Professional Alternative: Take-Home Kits

Many dentists also provide custom take-home whitening kits as an option for patients. These kits include custom-made trays and professional-grade bleaching gel. With professional take-home kits from your dentist, you can use less product and have fewer whitening sessions to achieve your desired shade of white in the comfort of your home [2]. 

Custom trays can be less expensive than in-office treatments while still offering reliable results for a more dramatic difference and a safer alternative to over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments. However, they often take more time to work than a single in-office whitening procedure.

Retail Brand Teeth Whitening Options: OTC Kits

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are widely available in stores and online. These include whitening strips, toothpaste, gels, and trays:

• Whitening strips and gels. Strips are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel, while gels usually come with a brush applicator to apply directly to the teeth.

• Whitening toothpaste. Contains mild abrasives that help remove surface stains, but usually don’t change the color of teeth dramatically.

• Whitening trays. OTC whitening trays tend to be one-size-fits-all, meaning they can cause uneven whitening and gum irritation if not used correctly.

While convenient and less expensive, retail teeth whitening options have lower levels of whitening agents, which result in less dramatic changes than professional teeth whitening [3]. They can take weeks or months to show any improvement, which is less than ideal when you have an event coming up that you want a brighter smile for.

Ask Your Dentist About Your Teeth Whitening Options

The best way to pursue a brighter smile is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They can assess the condition of your teeth, identify the cause of discoloration, and recommend the best approach to achieve your desired shade of white. Contact your dentist today to discuss your whitening options and get one step closer to your perfect smile!

Sources:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4058574/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10873745/
3. https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/whitening

The post The Differences Between Professional and Retail Brand Teeth Whitening Treatments appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

The answer is multifaceted, involving a mix of biological changes, dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and overall oral care. Here, we explore the various factors that contribute to tooth discoloration as we grow older.

The Natural Aging Process

Teeth are composed of several layers, including enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel, the outermost layer, is a hard protective cover that can wear down over time.

As we age, the enamel becomes thinner, exposing the underlying dentin, which is naturally more yellow than tooth enamel [1]. This gradual increase in dentin visibility can give the impression that teeth have darkened or become discolored.

In addition to enamel wear, other age-related changes affect the color of our teeth. For example, the pulp can shrink as we age, leading to changes in tooth translucency and making them appear darker. This process is called pulp recession.

Dietary Factors

Diet plays a significant role in tooth discoloration. Over time, habitual consumption of certain foods and beverages can stain teeth. Some common culprits include:

• Coffee and tea
• Red wine
• Dark sodas
• Berries and certain foods with strong pigments

Frequent snacking on these items can lead to the accumulation of stains, which become more pronounced as the enamel wears away. In addition, diets that include a lot of acidic foods and drinks—think citrus fruits, sodas, and alcohol—can slowly erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to discoloration [2].

Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and tobacco use, can dramatically impact tooth color. The tar and nicotine in tobacco products can leave unsightly stains, often resulting in a yellow or brown tint to the teeth [3]. As we age, these stains accumulate, leading to more pronounced discoloration.

Additionally, poor oral hygiene practices can accelerate the discoloration process. Neglecting regular brushing and flossing, combined with infrequent dental check-ups, can allow plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to a yellowing appearance.

Medical Factors

Certain medical conditions and medications can also influence tooth color as we age. For instance, some antibiotics, such as tetracycline, can cause staining if taken during pregnancy or early childhood.

Health conditions like diabetes or acid reflux can affect the mouth’s pH balance, potentially leading to enamel erosion and discoloration over time [4].

Additionally, the natural aging process can come with a higher likelihood of certain oral health issues, including cavities and gum disease, both of which can affect the appearance of teeth.

Preventive Measures

While some degree of discoloration can be a natural part of aging, there are steps you can take to help keep your teeth looking as bright as possible for as long as possible:

• Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to remove surface stains

• Limit consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks

• Consider using a straw for beverages that are likely to stain

• Avoid tobacco products altogether

Keep Your Teeth Bright With Professional Dental Care

If you are concerned about tooth discoloration and considering ways to improve your smile, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They can help you explore personalized options for teeth whitening and other treatments to enhance the brightness of your smile and correct stubborn discoloration that can happen with age.

Sources:

1. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/materials/articles/10.3389/fmats.2022.888638/full
2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/dietary-acids-and-your-teeth 
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1079878/ 
4. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-023-5677-0

The post Do Teeth Naturally Become Discolored With Age? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

But how exactly does a professional teeth whitening work, and how long do the results last? Here, we review the science behind teeth whitening and how long patients can expect their bright smiles to last.

The Science of Professional Teeth Whitening

In a professional teeth whitening procedure, dentists use potent whitening agents that effectively penetrate the enamel to lighten the color of teeth. These whitening agents create a chemical reaction that lightens stains and improves the overall color of your teeth [1].

There are two main professional whitening methods:

• In-office whitening. This method involves applying a concentrated whitening gel directly to the teeth. The gel usually contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active ingredient. To enhance the effectiveness, many dentists use a special light or laser to activate the gel, allowing for deeper penetration of the solution into the tooth [2]. The procedure typically lasts about an hour, and patients see immediate results.
• Take-home whitening kits. Some dentists also provide custom-made trays and a lower-concentration whitening gel to patients, allowing them to whiten their teeth at home. The trays fit snugly over the teeth and are typically worn for a certain amount of time each day. Although the results may take longer than in-office treatments, this method can be effective and convenient for many patients.

Before you get your teeth whitened, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth to reveal their true shade. This allows you to determine how much whiter you’d like your teeth and your dentist to see where stubborn stains are for a more tailored approach to teeth whitening.

How Long Does Professional Teeth Whitening Last?

How long your professional teeth whitening will last depends on several factors. Most patients can expect their brighter teeth to last anywhere from six months to two years. What factors determine how long your results will last?

• Tooth staining. People with intrinsic stains—those that occur from inside the tooth—may find that their results fade more quickly than individuals with extrinsic stains caused by surface factors [3].
• Oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings play a crucial role in maintaining a white smile. Good oral hygiene helps prevent the buildup of new stains.
• Your diet. Foods and beverages that stain teeth, including coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits, can stain newly whitened teeth faster. 
• Tobacco use. Tobacco is notorious for staining teeth. If you smoke or use tobacco products after whitening, your results will fade faster.

Many people have their whitened teeth touched up over time to maintain a bright smile. Your dentist can advise you on best practices to help your results last as long as possible. 

Ask Your Dentist About Professional Teeth Whitening Today

Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective procedure that can dramatically transform the appearance of your smile. If you’ve been considering getting your teeth whitened, ask your dentist about your options for a brighter smile during your next appointment!

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058574/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6784469/
3. https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/whitening

The post How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work and How Long Does It Last? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Teeth naturally stain over time, leading to a dull or discolored smile that can impact your appearance and self-confidence. But with so many over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, it’s hard to decide if you should try a retail product or invest in a professional whitening at your dentist’s office.

While retail products may seem convenient and cost-effective, there are several compelling reasons why professional teeth whitening stands out as the superior choice.

Dentists Use Stronger, More Effective Formulas

Dentists use prescription-strength hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide formulas that are significantly stronger than those found in retail products.

These formulas are professional-grade and provide more effective stain removal and faster results. While retail products might take weeks to show noticeable changes, professional treatments can often achieve significant whitening in just one session.

Customization for Your Individual Needs

Every smile is unique, and so are the factors contributing to tooth discoloration. Professional whitening services allow for a personalized approach, meaning you can customize your shade of white and remove deep stains with professional whitening [1].

Dentists evaluate the specific condition of your teeth and determine the best whitening method tailored to your needs, taking into account existing dental work, sensitivity issues, and desired outcomes.

On the other hand, retail products offer a one-size-fits-all approach, which can’t effectively address individual leads and can even harm your smile.

Safer Procedures

Although teeth whitening is considered safe and effective, professional teeth whitening is safer than DIY methods [2].

Dentists are trained to manage potential complications and take necessary precautions to protect the gums and enamel from irritation or damage, which can be a common side effect of over-the-counter products.

There’s also the potential for people to misuse retail whitening products, which can lead to uneven whitening, gum damage, and increased tooth sensitivity, ultimately impacting their results and satisfaction.

Immediate Results

Professional whitening procedures deliver immediate results that brighten your smile in as little as one hour [3]. This is especially beneficial for important events such as weddings, job interviews, or photo shoots, where people want to look their best.

On the other hand, people who use retail whitening products may have to wait weeks to see any effect on their smile, which can be frustrating and discouraging. Whitening products can also unevenly whiten the teeth, causing a less-than-perfect smile that can impact your appearance and self-confidence.

Longer-Lasting Effects

While retail whitening methods can provide temporary improvement, professional whitening often results in longer-lasting effects. The potent formulas dental professionals use to whiten teeth penetrate deeper to remove stubborn stains.

Dentists can also provide post-treatment care tips and products that help maintain your results for longer, ensuring that your investment pays off in the long run.

Ask Your Dentist About Professional Teeth Whitening

Retail products simply can’t match professional teeth whitening when it comes to safety, effectiveness, and results. Investing in a brighter smile is best done with a dental professional, so ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening and how it can enhance your smile today!

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058574/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6938424/
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/teeth-whitening   

The post Why Professional Teeth Whitening Is a Better Option Than Retail Whitening Products appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Certain drinks can significantly harm your teeth and gums, leading to issues such as tooth decay, enamel erosion, and gum disease. Here, we take a closer look at some common drinks that can pose risks to your oral health.

Soda and Soft Drinks

Sugar-sweetened sodas and soft drinks are among the worst drinks for your oral health. These beverages are typically high in sugar, which causes the bacteria in your mouth to produce harmful acids to break them down. These acids can erode tooth enamel, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay.

Sodas and soft drinks also tend to have a low pH, making them more acidic, in addition to their high sugar content. Drinks that have a low pH can further erode tooth enamel and make teeth more vulnerable to decay [1]. 

Fruit Juices

Many think fruit juices are healthy, especially if it’s 100% juice. However, this isn’t necessarily true. These drinks have high levels of natural sugars and acids that can contribute to tooth decay [2]. 

Juice that isn’t 100% fruit or contains added sugars poses an even greater risk. Opting for whole fruits instead of juice is a healthier choice, as they contain fiber and fewer concentrated sugars.

Sports and Energy Drinks

Sports and energy drinks, like sodas and fruit juices, have high levels of sugar and acids that can lead to enamel erosion and cavities [3]. Energy drinks also contain high amounts of caffeine, which can dry out the oral cavity, leading to dry mouth.

Dry mouth can contribute to tooth decay because it causes an imbalance of oral bacteria and less saliva—a recipe for enamel erosion and bad breath.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol can significantly impact your oral health. Alcoholic drinks can lead to dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. Saliva is essential because it helps wash away food particles and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.

In addition, many cocktails and mixed drinks are high in sugar, and the acid in wine, especially white wine, can erode enamel. Combined with their acidic nature, alcoholic beverages are considered some of the worst for your oral health.

Consuming alcoholic drinks can also irritate the soft tissues of the oral cavity, including the tongue and gums, not to mention alcohol is also a significant risk factor for oral cancer [4]. 

Coffee and Tea

While coffee and tea certainly have their health benefits, they can also impact your oral health if consumed excessively.

Both drinks can stain teeth over time due to their dark pigments and tannins. Additionally, sugary coffee drinks and sweetened teas can contribute to tooth enamel erosion and decay.

It’s best to enjoy these beverages without added sugars and rinse your mouth with water afterward to mitigate staining and acid damage.

Did Any of These Drinks Surprise You?

Did any of the common drinks on this list surprise you? By understanding which beverages can be harmful and taking proactive measures, you can protect your smile and your oral health. Remember that hydration is crucial for both your body and your smile, and water is the best beverage, so choose water whenever possible for a healthier mouth and body!

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10096725/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6640211/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8601704/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318251538_Effect_of_Alcoholism_on_Oral_Health_A_Review

The post What Common Drinks Can Be Harmful to Your Oral Health? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

So when is the best time to get professional teeth whitening? The following pointers will help you pick the best time so you can smile bright!

Before Big Events

Since professional teeth whitening takes effect immediately, there’s no waiting for a whiter smile. So if you have a big event coming up where you would love to have whiter teeth think weddings, graduations, and even vacations—you can have your teeth safely whitened before the big event.

However, since tooth sensitivity is a side effect of teeth whitening, with any effects occurring in the first few days, you may want to schedule your teeth whitening procedure about a week before the event so you can skip the sensitivity and feel great for the big day [1].

Prior to Restorative Dentistry Work

Restorative dentistry procedures typically involve dental crowns, veneers, dental bonding, or fillings. All these restorations do not respond to professional whitening, so if you want whiter teeth, getting a professional whitening done prior to any restorative work is best [2].

If you have restorative work done and then get your teeth whitened, keep in mind that the restorations will not be the same color as your teeth. This may not be a big deal for crowns or fillings in the back of your mouth, but for visible crowns, veneers, or dental bonding, you’ll want to consider teeth whitening first so the color will match your other teeth for a natural looking smile.

When You Notice Your Teeth Are Stained

The effects of teeth whitening can last up to and over a year, potentially much longer, when you properly take care of your teeth [3]. However, if you notice your teeth are stained or that you need a touch-up for whiter teeth, it may be time to schedule another whitening procedure.

Stains can be more obvious on whiter teeth, so when you notice your teeth have obvious stains, you can maintain your whitening by getting a touch-up with your dentist. This is the safest and most effective way to re-whiten teeth and to maintain that picture-perfect smile.

Ask Your Dentist About Teeth Whitening Today

Have you been considering whiter teeth? If so, consider that teeth whitening has  immediate effects so you’ll be ready for a big event, but that restorative procedures should come first. And if you notice your teeth whitening needs some TLC, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your dentist—in many cases, a teeth cleaning can remove visible stains!

Sources:
1. https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6784469/
2. https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(14)60885-0/pdf
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058574/

The post When Is the Best Time to Get Professional Teeth Whitening? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

One of the best things about professional teeth whitening is that you can control the results and get the exact shade of white that you want for your smile. There are many reasons to consider teeth whitening, whether you are preparing for a big life event or simply want a brighter smile.

For everyone wondering about whiter teeth, we have your questions about professional teeth whitening: answered!

How Long Does a Professional Teeth Whitening Take?

A professional teeth whitening takes about an hour but can take up to 90 minutes [1]. Your dentist will let you know what to expect before your appointment. You will have whiter teeth immediately after your procedure.

Can I Eat After Getting My Teeth Whitened?

Yes, you can eat after getting your teeth whitened. However, it’s generally recommended to avoid foods that can stain your teeth, especially for the first few days after your teeth whitening. Your dentist will likely recommend you stick to light or white foods, which are less likely to stain teeth than dark foods and drinks.

How Long Will My Whiter Teeth Last?

White teeth can last for years with proper care. It’s essential to maintain your whiter teeth by protecting them from foods and drinks that can stain (such as coffee, blueberries, soy sauce, and cola), getting your teeth professionally cleaned, and having in-office touch-ups as needed. As always, proper oral hygiene at home—including brushing and flossing—can help you have whiter teeth.

Does Teeth Whitening Cause Tooth Sensitivity?

Teeth whitening can cause temporary tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common side effects after whitening, but not every patient will experience it [2]. Your dentist will make every effort to minimize sensitivity before, during, and after your appointment.

What Makes a Professional Whitening Different Than Over-the-Counter Kits?

Professional teeth whitening is more effective than OTC kits since dentists use a stronger whitening solution. Whereas it can take days or weeks to get a brighter smile from a store bought kit, you can leave your dentist’s office with whiter teeth in just one day. Professional teeth whitening is safe, effective, and provides more consistent and long-lasting results [3].

Is Teeth Whitening Guaranteed to Make My Teeth Whiter?

Your dentist will assess your candidacy for teeth whitening based on your individual smile. Teeth whitening is most effective for extrinsic stains, meaning stains caused by an outside source such as foods, drinks, tobacco use, or poor oral hygiene. However, teeth whitening may be used as a supplemental treatment for some types of intrinsic staining. Professional teeth whitening is not effective on dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and veneers.

Ask Your Dentist About Teeth Whitening

Have you been considering getting your teeth whitened? If so, schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss the procedure and ask more questions. Whiter teeth can increase your confidence and transform your smile in just one visit to your dentist!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058574/
2. https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-
topics/whitening
3. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fdmed.2021.687507/full

The post Your Questions About Professional Teeth Whitening: Answered appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Often referred to simply as TMJ, these disorders can cause annoying clicking and popping sounds when the jaw is in motion, jaw aches, and even chronic pain. But does TMJ have to be treated to get better? Here’s what you should know.

Depends on What’s Causing Your Symptoms

TMJ disorders can be caused by different factors. Depending on what’s causing your symptoms, you may only require minimal treatment [1]. While it’s rare that no treatment is needed at all, ignoring TMJ can often make your symptoms worse.

Your symptoms can be caused by overuse of the joint, such as chewing gum excessively, having a misaligned bite, or even arthritis in the joint. Until you determine the root cause of the issue with an oral healthcare professional, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to successfully treat the problem.

Minimally Invasive Care Techniques Can Help

Surgery is rarely needed for TMJ symptoms, and most people can resolve their discomfort at home with the guidance of a dentist [2]. Your dentist may recommend medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or pursuing further diagnostics if necessary to identify problems with the joints.

TMJ symptoms can also be related to other oral health conditions such as teeth grinding. If your dentist suspects you have an underlying issue that’s placing stress on your temporomandibular joints, they’ll work with you to fully address the problem and help relieve your discomfort.

Ignoring TMJ Can Make It Worse

Although TMJ symptoms can resolve on their own, many people end up dealing with chronic TMJ problems. Once the joint becomes aggravated, it can be difficult to resolve any inflammation or discomfort, especially since the jaw is in use throughout the day [3].

Ignoring TMJ can lead to more discomfort over time, even if your symptoms are intermittent. Since many TMJ issues can be resolved with home care techniques, it’s always worth it to get the problem evaluated by a professional!

Are You Experiencing TMJ Symptoms?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ, don’t let the problem go unaddressed. There are minimally-invasive care techniques that can help reduce your pain. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to see what you can do today to help improve your TMJ and start feeling better!

Sources:
1. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2017-09/less-is-best-tmj.pdf
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/diagnosis-treatment/drc-
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2813497

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