TMJ

What is TMJ?

TMJ is a chronic disorder that affects the temporomandibular joints, which sit on each side of your jaw. These joints connect the lower jaw to the skull, allowing you to eat, speak, and move your mouth comfortably. TMJ can develop in the joints or the muscles and tendons that support them. 

Without treatment, TMJ can cause widespread pain and discomfort. The team at Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates works with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your needs and preserves your joint function.

What are the signs of TMJ?

TMJ affects everyone differently depending on the severity of the condition and whether it stems from joint damage or muscle strain. Telltale signs of TMJ include:

• Jaw pain
• Jaw tenderness
• Pain when chewing
• Clicking when opening and closing your mouth
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Earaches
• Neck and shoulder pain

Your jaw can even lock into a certain position when you open and close your mouth, a condition called locked jaw. 

What causes TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint acts as a sliding hinge, allowing your jaw to move up, down, and side to side. Any imbalance in the joint or the tissues that support it can cause stress and pressure to build up. 

While anybody can develop TMJ, certain factors increase your risk, such as:

• Having arthritis
• Experiencing a jaw injury
• Having malocclusions (overbite, underbite, etc.)
• Having bruxism (teeth grinding)

Some people experience TMJ symptoms frequently, while others notice increasing pain and discomfort during times of stress.

What are the treatments for TMJ?

The first step in treating TMJ is identifying the underlying cause. Once the team locates the source of your pain they can recommend the appropriate treatment. Popular treatments for TMJ include:

Night guards

A night guard protects your teeth and gently shifts your jaw into a more comfortable position that evenly distributes pressure across your mouth. These custom-made appliances can relieve stress on your temporomandibular joints to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Orthodontic treatments

If a bad bite is adding stress to your teeth and temporomandibular joints, orthodontic treatment can move your jaw into a more aligned position. The team offers multiple types of clear aligners to correct malocclusions and misaligned teeth.

Call Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about TMJ.