TMJ

TMJ, an acronym for the temporomandibular joint, is often the source of pain and headaches for many individuals. Dysfunction of the TMJ is termed TMD. The TMJs are one of the most complex and over-worked joints in the body. As a result, patients who experience TMD often have some or all of the following symptoms:

• Headaches
• Aching or stiffness in the neck
• Aching or stiff shoulders
• Earaches, ear fullness, ear ringinG
• Jaw pain
• Tooth grinding
• Tooth clenching
• Popping or clicking in the jaw joint
• Facial pain
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Unexplainable tooth pain

TMJ symptoms are most commonly caused by muscle spasms in the head, neck, or shoulders. These spasms are very often triggered by the misalignment of the way the teeth fit together or some type of injury (car accident, sports injury, etc).

While most experts agree that the most common cause of head and neck pain are muscle spasms, there is limited awareness of the severity of the pain caused by the spasms. Because muscle spasms don’t show up on x-rays, MRIs, or routine laboratory tests, the diagnosis of migraine is often mistakenly made. Our doctors offer a proven, successful treatment for these types of muscle spasms which will relieve your discomfort. Most TMD patients can be treated conservatively without the need for surgery.

Our treatment of TMD begins with a thorough examination and radiographs. A thorough history will be taken at which time you will have a chance to discuss your particular situation, symptoms, as well as any prior treatments you may have received. After a thorough physical examination, the doctor will discuss his/her findings and treatment recommendations.