Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain Treatment
The terms TMJ and TMD are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing. The TMJ is the jaw joint, and a TMD is a problem with the joint. The TMJ is a pretty complicated collection of muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves that enable the jaw to have a wide range of motion, and slight imbalances in the body can cause it to not work properly, leading to long-term discomfort and dysfunction.
Some of the most telling symptoms that someone might have a TMD include:
- Persistent jaw pain
- A jaw that pops and clicks all the time
- A jaw that becomes stuck opening or closing
- An inability to open or close the mouth completely
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Frequent ear and neck aches
- Teeth grinding while sleeping
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, more commonly known as TMJ disorder, is a complicated group of conditions. The disorder is often characterized by pain and limited mobility in the jaw and surrounding tissue. Dr. Moore has been trained to properly identify, diagnose and treat TMJ disorder.
TMJ damage is usually caused by stress, trauma or other injuries, Here are some of the symptoms of TMJ.
- Sore jaw muscles
- Chronic headaches
- Bruxism (grinding/clenching teeth)
- Clicking, popping, locking, or soreness just in front of the ear
- Bite-related issues
- Cervical neck problems
- Ringing in the ears
- Sinus-like concerns
Therapy to relieve TMJ pain typically includes splints or retainers to help correct poor bites, decrease stress at the joint, and reduce muscle hyperactivity such as habitual grinding or clenching. We may follow this with bite treatment through bite adjustment (equilibration), orthodontics, or restorative dentistry.
Physical therapy can help with sore muscles, cervical neck issues, sleep position, and improved posture. Medications for inflammation, muscle relaxation, and sleep are often prescribed to relieve TMJ pain. If you have serious joint problems, you may require surgical intervention.
Relief from chronic headaches and jaw pain could be closer than you think! Call us to schedule an appointment today.