The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the rest of the head, enabling essential daily functions such as speaking, eating, and yawning. When this joint is stressed, injured, or misaligned, it can cause significant discomfort and affect your quality of life. TMJ disorders, also known as TMD, may arise due to stress, bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), arthritis, or trauma to the head, neck, or jaw. During your visit, our dentist will carefully examine your jaws and mouth to identify the cause of your TMJ disorder and develop a tailored treatment plan.
Common signs of TMJ disorders include:
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sounds when moving the jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide
- A locked or stuck jaw
- Pain when chewing and biting
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, and ears
- Frequent headaches
The treatment for your TMJ disorder will depend on its severity. Our dentist may recommend jaw and facial relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes, restorative dental treatments, night guards, or even jaw surgery. Often, a combination of treatments is used to achieve the best long-term results.
For more information about TMJ treatment or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office today!