Other Treatments

TMJ/TMD

If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty with jaw movement, you may be suffering from TMJ or TMD. These terms refer to disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. At Watterson Dentistry, we offer effective, personalized treatments to alleviate your discomfort and restore healthy jaw function.

What Is TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in your body, allowing you to speak, chew, and move your jaw. TMJ disorders (TMD) occur when there’s dysfunction or strain in this joint or the surrounding muscles. Common symptoms include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
• Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
• Locking of the jaw
• Headaches, neck pain, or earaches
• Facial swelling or soreness

These issues can stem from a variety of causes, such as teeth grinding (bruxism), misaligned bites, stress, arthritis, or trauma to the jaw.

Our Approach to TMJ/TMD Treatment

At Watterson Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating TMJ/TMD. During your consultation, Dr. Watterson will evaluate your symptoms, examine your jaw, and use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort. From there, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Common TMJ/TMD treatments include:

• Custom Nightguards — Teeth grinding and clenching often contribute to TMJ pain. A custom-fitted nightguard can protect your teeth, relieve pressure on the jaw joint, and reduce discomfort.
• Bite Adjustment Therapy — If a misaligned bite is causing your TMJ issues, adjusting your bite through orthodontics or minor dental corrections can restore proper function and alleviate symptoms.
• Stress Management Techniques — Stress can lead to clenching or grinding. We may recommend relaxation techniques or collaborate with other specialists to address this underlying factor.
• Lifestyle Modifications — Small changes, such as eating softer foods, avoiding gum chewing, or applying heat and ice to the affected area, can make a big difference in managing TMJ pain.
• Advanced Treatments — In more severe cases, we may recommend physical therapy, injections, or referral to a TMJ specialist for further care.

Don’t Let TMJ Pain Impact Your Life

Living with TMJ/TMD pain can affect your daily life, making simple activities like eating or speaking uncomfortable. With effective, personalized treatment from Watterson Dentistry, relief is within reach.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ/TMD, contact us to request a consultation. Our caring team is here to help you find lasting relief and restore comfort and function to your jaw.

Airway (Sleep Apnea)

Good sleep is essential for your overall health, but for many people, conditions like sleep apnea or airway obstructions disrupt restful sleep, leading to a range of health problems. At Watterson Dentistry, we offer specialized treatment to help patients breathe better, sleep better, and improve their quality of life.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, often due to the tongue or soft tissues collapsing at the back of the throat.

Signs and symptoms of sleep apnea can include:

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
• Waking up feeling tired or unrefreshed
• Daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
• Morning headaches or dry mouth

Sleep apnea can increase the risk of serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, making effective treatment essential.

Our Approach to Airway & Sleep Apnea Treatment

At Watterson Dentistry, we focus on non-invasive, dental-based solutions to treat sleep apnea and airway issues. During your consultation, Dr. Watterson will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include discussing your symptoms, examining your airway, and using advanced imaging technology to understand your breathing patterns.

Common treatment options may include:

• Custom Oral Appliances — For mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom-fitted oral appliance is a comfortable and effective solution. These appliances work by gently repositioning your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and interruptions in breathing.
• Orthodontic Solutions — Misaligned teeth or a narrow jaw can contribute to airway issues. Orthodontic treatments like braces or palatal expanders can help improve airflow and overall jaw alignment.
• Lifestyle Recommendations — Making small changes, such as losing weight, sleeping on your side, or avoiding alcohol before bed, can enhance the effectiveness of your treatment and improve your sleep quality.

The Importance of Treating Airway & Sleep Issues

Untreated sleep apnea can significantly impact your physical and mental health, leaving you feeling exhausted, irritable, and at risk for more serious complications. By addressing airway issues and improving your breathing, we can help you regain restful sleep and boost your overall well-being.

Breathe Better, Sleep Better, Live Better

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or struggle with airway-related issues, Watterson Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to request a consultation and learn how our customized treatments can help you achieve better sleep and better health.

Zoom Whitening

At Watterson Dentistry, we know how important a bright, white smile is for your confidence. That’s why we offer Zoom Whitening, a professional teeth whitening treatment that delivers dramatic results in as little as one hour. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to refresh your smile, Zoom Whitening is a safe, effective, and fast way to achieve noticeable results.

What Is Zoom Whitening?

Zoom Whitening is an in-office treatment that uses a powerful yet gentle whitening gel activated by a special LED light. This combination works to break down tough stains and discoloration caused by:

• Coffee, tea, and wine
• Tobacco use
• Aging
• Certain medications or other factors

The treatment is carefully designed to be safe for your teeth and gums while providing dramatic whitening, often lightening your teeth by up to eight shades in just one session.

What to Expect During Your Zoom Whitening Appointment

Your Zoom Whitening experience is simple, comfortable, and efficient:

1. Preparation — To protect your gums and soft tissues, we apply a barrier before the whitening gel is placed on your teeth.
2. Whitening Gel Application — The Zoom whitening gel is carefully applied to your teeth. This gel contains hydrogen peroxide, which breaks apart stains and discoloration.
3. LED Light Activation — A special Zoom LED light is positioned over your teeth to activate the gel and accelerate the whitening process. The treatment is done in 15-minute intervals, typically with three to four rounds in total.
4. Post-Treatment Protection — After your whitening session, we apply a special fluoride gel to reduce sensitivity and protect your enamel.

In about an hour, you’ll leave with a noticeably brighter smile!

The Benefits of Zoom Whitening

• Fast and Effective — Achieve stunning results in just one visit — perfect for patients with busy schedules or upcoming events.
• Safe and Professional — Zoom Whitening is administered by trained professionals, ensuring safety and minimizing sensitivity.
• Long-Lasting Results — With proper care, your Zoom results can last for months. Maintain your bright smile by avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks and following a good oral hygiene routine.
• Customized for You — Zoom Whitening treatments are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you achieve the best possible results.

A whiter, more radiant smile is just one appointment away with Zoom Whitening at Watterson Dentistry. Contact us today to request your consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident you!