TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders affect the jaw joints, which connect the jaw to the skull. They can develop from teeth grinding, clenching, injury, or arthritis, leading to joint misalignment, pain, and difficulty with jaw movement.
TMJ Disorders
Experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or trouble opening your mouth? TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders affect the connection between your jaw and skull. Our team at Midwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery specializes in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders.
TMJ Disorder Treatment at Midwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
TMJ disorders can cause pain, clicking sounds, and jaw stiffness. These problems stem from misalignment between your jaw joints and your chewing muscles. Whether it’s due to grinding, clenching, or injury, our Midwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery team offers a range of treatments tailored to relieve symptoms and restore proper jaw function. From noninvasive splints to advanced surgical options, we’re here to guide you toward a more comfortable jaw.
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TMJ Treatment Options
- Self-Care Measures: Resting the jaw, maintaining proper posture, eating soft foods, and using ice or heat to manage pain.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants; medications may also be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Jaw exercises, biofeedback, and stress management techniques to improve jaw function and reduce discomfort.
- Splints/Nightguards: Worn over the teeth to prevent clenching and grinding, reduce muscle tension, and protect the joint surfaces.
- Anterior Positioning Appliance: Moves the jaw forward to relieve pressure and aid in disk repositioning, often worn throughout the day for healing support.
- Orthotic Stabilization Appliance: Helps reposition the jaw and can be worn all day or just at night, aiding in proper jaw alignment.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adapting daily habits to minimize stress on the jaw, which may include practicing relaxation techniques and dietary changes.
FAQ
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What are TMJ disorders, and what causes them?
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How are TMJ disorders diagnosed?
TMJ disorders are diagnosed through a physical exam, during which your doctor assesses jaw movement, listens for sounds like clicking, and checks for tenderness. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be used to provide a closer look at the bones, joints, and surrounding tissues to help identify any underlying issues.
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What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
Symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth, difficulty chewing or opening your mouth, headaches, and even earaches. Some may also experience jaw locking or stiffness.
Related Services
Corrective Jaw Surgery
For severe cases, corrective jaw surgery may be necessary to realign the jaw and address underlying structural issues causing TMJ symptoms.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry can help TMJ patients receive necessary dental treatments with reduced anxiety and discomfort, especially for those who may have difficulty keeping their jaws open for extended periods.
Sedation Dentistry