TMJ & TMD

TMJ is formally called tempromandibular joints

 

The lower jaw is connected to the skull through the Tempromandibular Joints. These joints are responsible for the movement of the lower jaw in all directions including side to side and forward & backward movements. Any issue that prevents or discourages the proper movement of the lower jaw is part of the broad category of Tempromandibular Joint Syndrome. Typically, the symptoms of TMJ do not last for extended periods of time and can be treated with self care or non surgical dental treatments.

 

TMD is the term for disorders of the TMJ.

 

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

 

Disorders of these Tempromandibular Joints can have many symptoms which can range from mild clicking noises from the joint to as severe as being partially unable to open or close the jaw.

 

Common symptoms of TMJ Syndrome include:

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• Pain or tenderness in the lower jaw or areas surrounding the TMJ

• Aching pain around the ears or face

• Clicking or popping noises when moving the lower jaw

• Headaches

• Trouble with chewing or opening & closing of the jaw

• Swelling of the face or areas around the Tempromandibular Joints

• Sudden change in the way your teeth or bite fit together

 

Depending on the severity of disorder of these joints, you can experience all or just a few of these symptoms. It should also be noted that many of these symptoms may also be caused by other dental or medical issues unrelated to TMD, and you should visit us to narrow down the potential causes.

 

Diagnosis of TMJ

 

We treat many cases of TMJ Disorders ever year, and have done so for the past 50 years that we have been practicing dentistry in Oxnard, California. The difficulty in assessing TMJ Syndrome lies in the fact that many of the characteristic symptoms can be caused by a variety of dental issues.

When diagnosing your jaw problem, we conduct a thorough examination of your neck, head, face, and jaw and take note of anything that is off such as: tenderness or pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty in opening/closing of the jaw, or malocclusion (misalignment) of the teeth or lower jaw. We may also take a dental CT scan to get more detail on the condition of the TMJ discs and bones as you bite.

 

Treatments For TMJ Disorders

 

Depending on the underlying cause of your pain or discomfort, there are many different forms of treatment for TMJ syndrome. These treatments can involve simple fixes such as taking pain medication, or general lifestyle changes such as eating softer foods or avoiding stress until the symptoms have cleared up.

 

Home remedies:

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• Over the counter pain relievers (NSAIDS …take with food). Avoid aspirin of you have any bleeding issues

• Apply moist heat & cold packs

• Eat soft foods

• Relaxation techniques

  • Deep breathing exercises​

  • Embrace daily routines

  • Use TMJ pain relief exercises (these can stretch & strengthen your jaw) - Click here to download a tip sheet for these exercises

  • Enjoy a warm bath

  • Practice mindfulness & meditation

  • Get plenty of rest & sound sleep

 

What we may offer:

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• Prescription medications

• Orthodontics or restorative work

• A mouthguard for use at night