TMJ

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your jawbone to your skull. This joint is used very on a daily basis when you chew and speak, so having any type of issue can cause a lot of annoying pain and discomfort. Even though TMJ disorders can be a bit of a medical mystery, we can help you relieve symptoms and try to correct the issue.

What is a TMJ Disorder?

A TMJ disorder is a problem with the jaw and muscles that control the joint. There isn’t an exact known cause for this disorder, which is known as TMD, but it may be triggered by grinding teeth, arthritis, and even stress. If you’re under a lot of stress, you could be unknowingly tightening your muscles or clenching your teeth.

How are TMJ Disorders Treated?

TMJ disorders will sometimes go away on their own, but if it does continue, we’ll have several options, including muscle relaxants and pain medications that can be used to help alleviate the symptoms.

Physical therapy can also help strengthen your muscles, while a mouth guard can prevent teeth grinding when you sleep. If none of these choices work, we may need to look at a surgical procedure.

What are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders will usually have very noticeable symptoms, whether they’re minor or more extreme. These will also typically be noticed mainly around the jaw. Here are some of the signs you should look out for:

• Pain in your face, jaw, ear, neck, or shoulders
• Jaw gets locked in an open or closed position
• Popping sounds from your jaw
• Difficult to chew
• Swelling