TMJ

What is temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)?

TMJ is a painful condition that affects the temporomandibular joints –– two hingelike pieces of soft tissue that connect your jawbone to your skull. TMJ causes the temporomandibular joints to become swollen and inflamed, affecting your jaw’s flexibility and range of motion.

Almost everyone experiences jaw pain occasionally, but if your symptoms last for more than a few days and don’t respond to over-the-counter medication, contact Brooklyn City Dental.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms of TMJ include:

• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Earaches
• Pain in the neck and shoulders
• Difficulty chewing
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Tooth pain
• Swelling on the side of your face

As the condition worsens, you might also experience a popping or clicking sensation when you open your mouth to speak, yawn, or take a bite of food.

What causes TMJ?

Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes TMJ, but several factors may contribute, including:

• Teeth grinding
• Jaw clenching
• Arthritis
• Stress
• Acute trauma

You’re also more likely to experience TMJ if you have a bite abnormality, like crossbite, overbite, or underbite.

How is TMJ diagnosed?

Brooklyn City Dental diagnoses TMJ during an in-office visit.

Your provider reviews your dental records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started and if they’re worse at certain times. Next, your provider examines your jaw, observing its range of motion when you open and close your mouth. They also press on your temporomandibular joints to pinpoint swelling or sensitivity.

If a physical exam doesn’t provide enough insight into your condition, your provider orders X-rays. X-rays can assess the alignment of your teeth, jaw, and temporomandibular joints.

How is TMJ treated?

Treatment of TMJ depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your oral health. Brooklyn City Dental typically recommends conservative treatments, including:

• Ice and heat therapy
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication
• Eating soft foods to give your jaw a break
• Wearing a splint
• Wearing a night guard to prevent teeth grinding during sleep
• Orthodontics
• Ultrasound

If these treatments don’t provide relief, your provider might recommend an outpatient procedure like Botox® or trigger point injections.

To explore the treatment options for TMJ, make an appointment at Brooklyn City Dental by calling the office or booking online today.