Additional Services

What is TMJ and how does your practice treat it?

TMJ stands for temporal-mandibular joint, which is vital in the function and movement of the jaw. Complications in this joint may be caused by misalignment of the teeth, trauma, or excessive muscle tension. TMJ problems can cause headaches, earaches, jaw popping, pain in the jaw muscles, and soreness in the area that may extend into the face. Dr. Wooten has various methods for TMJ treatments, including professional nightguards (also known as mouthguards).

Coach says I need a mouthguard. Now what?

Protecting your teeth with a mouthguard during athletic activities is ALWAYS a good idea. Mouthguards can buffer the pain if you’re hit in the mouth and will protect teeth from cracking, chipping, or completely breaking.

A custom molded mouthguard from your Dr. Wooten ensures a tighter more protective fit than one from the drug store.

Did you know mouthguards are great for couch potatoes too? They can be worn at night if you tend to grind or clench your teeth. Other than losing a good night’s sleep, grinding/clenching can cause…

• extreme jaw pain
• eroded tooth surfaces
• fractured enamel
• extreme sensitivity
• headaches

Think you might mouthguard? Contact our Clintonville office.

I get nervous whenever I go to the dentist (it doesn’t matter who the doctor is). Do you have anything to help me with this?

We do! Many people get nervous before dental appointments. It’s okay. You’re not alone. Dr. Wooten offers patients a medication called Halcion. It helps to combat any anxiety before, during, and shortly after your visit.

After reviewing your health history and current list of prescriptions, Dr. Wooten may find that Halcion is a good fit for you. If so, you’ll take one pill roughly an hour before your appointment. While the medication will not put you to sleep, it will put you at ease. Some patients feel so relaxed that they’ll go home and nap after their appointment. Others say that Halcion relaxes them so much that they barely remember the appointment.

If you’d like to learn more about oral sedation for your dental visit, please feel free to contact us today.