TMJ Therapy

TMJ Symptoms & Treatment

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs as a result of problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), jaw muscles and nerves on one or both side of the head that result in jaw, face, and head and neck pain. TMD is not directly related to any one cause, but dentists believe possible causes can be attributed to:

• Grinding or clenching the teeth
• Dislocation of the soft cushion between the ball and socket
• Presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ
• Stress that causes a person to tighten the associated muscles or clench the teeth

The most common factor contributing to TMD is a bite problem which effects the joint itself. The TMJ is involved in many functions of muscles, ligaments and bones. The TMJ is comprised of a disc between a ball and socket that serves to cushion the forces on the joint and enables the jaw to move and function normally. Any of the above conditions may cause a properly functioning TMJ to experience pain.

TMJ Pain and TMD Symptoms

The symptoms of TMD can be temporary or can last for many years. TMD in women is more common than men and is most commonly seen in people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Common TMD Symptoms Include:

• Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when jaw movements occur
• Limited ability to open mouth very wide
• Jaws that "lock" in the open or closed position
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
• Swelling on the side of the face
• Teeth that do not align properly
• Frequent tension headaches

Diagnosing TMD

Dr. Sutton is familiar with the pains and symptoms associated with TMD and can give you a full evaluation to determine if you suffer from TMD and what your treatment options are. There are many other conditions that can cause similar symptoms including a toothache, sinus problems, arthritis, or gum disease and Dr. Sutton will conduct a clinical examination to determine the cause of your symptoms. You can expect Dr. Sutton to examine your temporomandibular joints for pain or tenderness; listen for clicking, popping or grating sounds during jaw movement; look for limited motion or locking of the jaw while opening or closing the mouth; and examine bite and facial muscle function. X-rays may be required to view the entire jaws, TMJ, and teeth to make sure other problems aren't causing the symptoms. The first step is to see what is causing you pain and to find a treatment to alleviate your problem.

Treating TMD

Some causes of TMD may effect your bite and subsequently impact the longevity of any smile makeover restorations you may want your dentist to provide. You may require a bite adjustment if problems such as wear, tooth mobility, muscle pain or other signs of malocclusion are observed. A stable bite is essential not only for esthetic reasons but also because maintaining a stable occlusion helps ensure that your upper and lower teeth will come into contact in the most comfortable and pain-free manner possible, without unnecessary force that could lead to headaches or fractured restorations.

The treatment of TMD depends on your specific conditions and can be determined by Dr. Sutton. Sonoma Smiles employs TMJ therapies that can restore optimal bite and neuromuscular function with non-surgical temporomandibular joint therapy. These types of therapies such as reconstructive dental work and oral appliances can reposition your jaw gently so that the muscles, bones, nerves, and teeth work in harmony. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation and begin the steps to a pain-free lifestyle and beautiful smile.