Temporomandibular joint disorder, often called TMJ pain, is a common problem that affects millions of people. The problem can cause pain in the jaw, tenderness in the jaw area, aching discomfort around the ear, pain during chewing, generalized facial pain and locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open and close the mouth. These symptoms can affect speaking and eating, resulting not only in jaw discomfort, but also self-consciousness and social embarrassment. Fortunately, TMJ treatment West Hollywood is available to manage jaw dysfunction and reduce common symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders.
Dr. Vafa at the Smile Angels of Beverly Hills offers a broad range of dental procedures for his patients in the Los Angeles area. He looks to new technologies in dentistry to help him serve the needs of his patients in West Hollywood, CA and surrounding areas. This interest in innovation in the dental field has led Dr. Vafa to explore the use of laser light for a variety of dental treatments, including teeth whitening, cavity detection, fillings, gum correction, frenectomy and treatment of soft tissues abnormalities. Today, lasers are used to relieve sleep apnea, remove benign tumors of the mouth, treat stubborn cold sores and help regenerate nerves.
New technologies, like the BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser, are also offering significant relief of symptoms for individuals who experience temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The device uses targeted laser light to promote healing of tissues, deep within the cell layers, to stimulate regeneration and to reduce pain.
Exploring the Causes of TMJ Disorders
The causes of TMJ disorders are not always well understood. However, evidence indicates that risk factors for developing temporomandibular problems include injuries to the jaw, such as those that occur during car accidents and athletic events, arthritis of the jaw in older people, habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth and certain types of connective tissue disorders that may affect the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. A high-stress lifestyle can cause chronic clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth during sleep, which can contribute to TMJ pain. Research on TMJ disorders indicate that the small disk that acts as a shock absorber in the joint may become erodes or may move out of its natural position, leading to discomfort and dysfunction. The cartilage in the joint may degenerate, due to the effects of arthritis. Injury to the jaw can lead to misalignment and poor function in the jaw joint.
Innovative Treatment: The BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser
Light has been used for hundreds of years for a number of medical conditions. The development of lasers enabled practitioners to focus light more intensely to specific areas of the body for maximum effect. The laser light is used to induce “photobiomodulation,” a process that stimulate healing process deep within tissue layers, improving healing an relieving pain. In recent decades, laser devices that can be easily implemented in medical and dental practice have expanded their use to provide important treatments that improve the lives of patients around the country. The BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser offer an improved method of dealing with pain and dysfunction, with deep tissue temperature enhancement that promotes faster healing for a variety of conditions. Healthcare professionals are able to use these technologies in their own offices, providing convenient treatments for patients experiencing a number of painful problems.
BIOLASE Laser Therapy in Action
BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser technology allows for precise direction and intensity of power that ensures patients experience a safe and effective treatment for their TMJ symptoms. When using the BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser for TMJ treatment in West Hollywood, the dentist uses the deep tissue handpiece that is directed at three areas that are most affected by TMJ disorders. These include the massager muscle in the jaw, the joint itself and the temporalis muscle in the forehead. The dentist will direct the laser light at each of these areas consecutively. Treatments generally take 5 to 10 minutes, and a number of sessions are usually needed to provide full relief of symptoms. Patients feel no pain during the treatment process, and they are carefully monitored for any sign of excessive exposure on the surface of their skin. Most patients enjoy immediate relief from discomfort. However, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care. Laser treatment can be a highly effective method of dealing with TMJ symptoms and often provides better relief from symptoms than medication or surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Vafa and Smile Angels?
Dr. Vafa’s reputation as a highly trained dental professional has drawn numerous patients to his practice. For the past 25 years, he and his experienced dental team have cared for the needs of patients of all ages. His understanding of the most current dental techniques has helped him provide his patients with the most up-to-date treatments for a wide range of dental and oral health issues. He is known for his holistic approach to dentistry, ensuring his patients have the proper information on diet, lifestyle and related topics to promote improved health in their overall well-being, as well as their dental health. Patient testimonials include praise for Dr. Vafa’s use of non-toxic filler materials for children, comprehensive consultations to explain upcoming procedures and the ability to make nervous patients feel comfortable undergoing dental procedures. Contact the Smile Angels of Beverly Hills office to learn more about the services they offer or to make an appointment.
TMJ pain can be an ongoing problem that requires intensive treatment to relieve discomfort and minimize impact on daily activities. If you experience symptoms of TMJ disorders and do not have sufficient relief with other remedies, laser treatment may be right for you. The BIOLASE Epic Diode Laser offers a new technology to treat these problems, improve healing and help patients enjoy greater comfort and better oral function. If you suffer from jaw pain or other symptoms of TMJ disorders, contact Dr. Vafa at Smile Angels of Beverly Hills today for an appointment to learn more about today’s TMJ treatment Los Angeles to resolve your jaw pain and dysfunction.
