If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, frequent headaches, or clicking sounds when you chew, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder (TMD)—a common but often misunderstood condition. At Designer Smiles in Fargo, Dr. Jeff Harrie and his team are dedicated to diagnosing and treating TMJ issues with solutions designed to restore comfort, balance, and function to your jaw.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. It plays a vital role in talking, chewing, and yawning. TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) refers to dysfunction or pain in this joint, as well as the muscles that support it.
TMD can be acute or chronic, and symptoms often extend beyond the jaw itself, sometimes affecting the ears, head, neck, shoulders, and even the upper back.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMD symptoms can be subtle at first but tend to worsen without treatment. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it might be time to schedule a consultation:
- Pain in the jaw, face, or ears
- Headaches or neck aches
- Ringing or stuffiness in the ears
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing your mouth
- Muscle tension or spasms in the jaw area
- Jaw locking or restricted movement
- Swelling on the sides of the face
- Uneven wear on your teeth or a misaligned bite
Many patients are surprised to learn that their chronic discomfort may be linked to jaw alignment and muscle strain—two things Dr. Jeff Harrie and his team specialize in evaluating and treating.
What Happens If TMD Goes Untreated?
Left unaddressed, TMJ issues can lead to long-term dental and muscular complications. Patients may begin to favor one side of the jaw, causing asymmetrical muscle development, uneven tooth wear, and even shifts in their bite. Bruxism (teeth grinding) is also common, which can accelerate tooth damage.
At Designer Smiles, we’re here to help you avoid those complications with early intervention and personalized care.
How We Treat TMJ at Designer Smiles
The first step to effective TMJ treatment is a thorough evaluation. Using advanced techniques, Dr. Jeff Harrie will identify the most relaxed, natural position of your jaw—a crucial starting point for long-term relief.
Once diagnosed, we may recommend:
- Custom oral appliances: These are designed to reposition your jaw, relieve muscle strain, and protect your teeth from grinding.
- Bite adjustments: Minor changes in how your teeth come together can reduce tension and improve alignment.
- Ongoing monitoring: We work with you to track changes and adjust your treatment as needed.
Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique case and goals. Our priority is your comfort and your ability to enjoy daily activities without pain.
Don’t Wait—Get the Relief You Deserve
TMJ pain isn’t just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your sleep, your diet, and your ability to focus. With proper diagnosis and treatment, relief is possible.
If you’re located in Fargo, Moorhead, or West Fargo, contact Designer Smiles today to schedule your TMJ consultation with Dr. Jeff Harrie. We’ll help you take the first step toward a pain-free, balanced smile.
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