Dentistry encompasses much more than just oral health. Issues with your jaw and bite can greatly affect your everyday life. Do you experience TMJ disorder? We’re here to help! TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, and this term is commonly associated with dysfunctions or disorders linked to this joint (often abbreviated as TMD). The term “temporo” denotes the temple area of the skull; “mandibular” pertains to the lower jaw; and “joint” represents where the head and jaw connect. Disruptions in this joint may arise from various causes such as trauma, teeth misalignment, arthritis, or excessive muscle tension. Identifying the precise cause can be challenging. For instance, some individuals develop TMJ due to nighttime teeth clenching and grinding, while others may grind their teeth without ever experiencing the disorder. The two bones meeting at the jaw are cushioned by cartilage and five different muscles, hence TMJ can lead to a range of issues. Common symptoms include: - Headaches - Earaches - Difficulty or discomfort when opening and closing the mouth - Clicking or popping sounds from the jaw - Pain within the jaw muscles - Discomfort in the area, sometimes radiating to the face What should you do? If you notice some popping without experiencing pain, these might be early indications of TMJ changes that may not need immediate intervention. However, we’re happy to address any questions you may have. If you’re facing those symptoms along with pain, a comprehensive evaluation of the joint, surrounding muscles, and teeth is advised. There's no universal approach that suits every case. We will collaborate with you to design a tailored treatment plan aimed at enhancing your health. Our dedicated team has invested significant effort into understanding TMJ disorders to better assist you. Should TMJ go unaddressed and escalate, surgery might become necessary to rehabilitate the severely affected joint. Reach out to discuss your concerns with us! We are committed to exploring every possible solution.
"Welcoming, professional and respectful of patients levels of anxiety/ and distress regarding dental procedures. The staff takes excellent care in the comfort of patients. Questions are answered respectfully. Warmth and concern are expressed approximately. This is a practice that builds relationships between professional staff and their patients- who are not just “passing through” but are part of the practice- which is not so large that one feels like a number- not an individual."
