Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD) is a very uncomfortable dental condition which affects the synovial joint that connects the jaw to the skull, resulting in pain in the muscles that control jaw movement. Often, TMJ develops on both sides and can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. If you are experiencing painful side effects associated with TMJ, it is time to consult with our dentists about your treatment options.

In addition to causing discomfort, TMJ can impact the function of your bite and compromise your oral health. A misaligned bite can adversely affect the appearance of your smile and compromise any cosmetic dentistry work you may have had done in the past. The severity of TMJ / TMD varies from one patient to another. However, prompt treatment can help you avoid a slew of dental problems and save you from experiencing pain.

Diagnosing TMJ and Receiving Treatment with Our Doctors

The first sign of TMJ is increased discomfort when chewing and sometimes clicking of the jaw. When left untreated, mild pain can also spread to the ears, neck and shoulders. Although not everyone who has TMJ will experience pain as one of their first symptoms. The best way to detect TMJ in its early stages is to undergo a routine oral exam.

Individual treatment options vary from one patient to another and can involve appliance therapy, full mouth reconstruction, occlusal equilibration, intra-oral appliances and oral surgery. However, surgery is often reserved for severe cases of TMJ. A combination of treatments may be utilized for reaching the best results possible. Rather than waiting until you have an emergency, we encourage you to receive a TMJ exam and start the treatment process as soon as possible.