The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull.
TMJ disorders often cause discomfort in the cheek, jaw, or ear areas and can affect normal jaw function. Throughout all the stress that we put our joints through, patients may not realize that the soreness or pain they are experiencing in their jaw or ears may be due to stresses on their temporomandibular joint.
Many patients also experience neck tension, headaches, and earaches as part of their TMJ dysfunction — symptoms that can be easy to overlook or attribute to other causes. Most people are surprised to learn that jaw pain, clenching, and teeth grinding can all be signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). If symptoms persist, it is important to determine the right treatment plan early before more severe cases develop.
In less severe cases TMJ disorders can be treated with rest, self-managed care (eating soft foods, using ice packs, avoiding extreme jaw movement) or conservative treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, Botox injections, or stabilization splints). More severe cases may require a more comprehensive treatment plan tailored to vary based on each patient's specific condition, injury, or trauma history.
TMJ Treatment: Custom Oral Appliances
We make custom-fitted night guards to alleviate stress on the temporal mandibular joint (TMJ) which may be resulting in soreness or pain. Patients find relief through these appliances, which are a cornerstone of TMJ therapy and among the most effective conservative treatments available.
Our office can fabricate custom appliances to help alleviate those stresses and prevent further damage and pain. Typically worn during sleep, these removable acrylic appliances can help provide lasting relief from TMJ pain and other effects of teeth grinding and clenching. Patients suffering from TMJ issues related to the surrounding muscles and joint can benefit significantly from consistent use.
TMJ conditions fall into three main categories:
- Myofascial pain – discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function (grinding teeth can result in this type of TMJ disorder)
- Internal derangement of the joint – a possible indicator of a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle
- Arthritis – a degenerative inflammatory disorder
Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders are frequently intensified by stress and can include:
- Headaches
- Soreness in the cheek or jaw area
- Pain in or around the ears
- Orofacial pain and facial discomfort
- Tight jaws
- Popping or clicking sounds when opening mouth
- Locking of the jaw
- Difficulty chewing
- Neck pain or stiffness
TMJ dysfunction symptoms can vary widely — for some patients, they may resolve on their own, while others benefit from professional TMJ treatment to achieve lasting relief. Our dentists will evaluate your condition and determine the most appropriate treatment plan, whether that means conservative treatments or a more advanced approach for more severe cases.
