Up to 10 million Americans suffer from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). The condition is characterized by jaw pain, headaches, and teeth grinding. At Brooklyn Dental Spa, in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City, the team of expert dentists has years of experience diagnosing and treating TMJ. To make an appointment, call the office or book online today.
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.
The symptoms of TMJ include:
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.
Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes TMJ, but several factors may contribute, including:
You’re also more likely to experience TMJ if you have a bite abnormality, like crossbite, overbite, or underbite.
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.
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:
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.