TMJ Information
Do you live in San Diego and think you may have TMJ?
At The Super Dentists, located in the San Diego area, your comfort and satisfaction are our top priority. In addition to orthodontic treatments such as braces, Invisalign and retainers, we also offer treatment for TMJ. TMJ (or TMD-Temporomandibular Disorder) can be a very uncomfortable and painful disorder and we are here to help you find relief. With three locations to better serve you in Chula Vista, Eastlake and Oceanside, CA, TMJ treatment and relief is never too far away! Read below for more information on TMJ and the treatments that we offer.
What is TMJ/TMD?
The Temporomandibular Joint, also known as the jaw joint, assists in the basic opening and closing movements of the jaw. Commonly called "TMJ," jaw joint and muscle disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. According to the National Institue of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders affect over 10 million Americans and the conditions appear to be more common in women than men.
The Causes Of TMJ
TMJ can be a result of various factors. Arthritis, dislocation or injuries to the jaw, head and neck are common causes of jaw pain and dysfunction. TMJ can also be caused by the bite, or the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. Stress and frequent grinding of the teeth can also cause TMJ disorders.
TMJ Symptoms
A variety of symptoms may be linked to TMJ pain and disorders:
- Pain in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint
- Jaw muscle stiffness
- Limited movement or locking of the jaw
- Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please one of our San Diego area offices to schedule an exam. While common pain relievers and cold compresses can provide temporary relief for many TMJ cases, more serious cases may require treatment in order to prevent swelling, deterioration and damage of the joint tissue.
Treatment
During a TMJ exam, Dr. Hoss or one of the other specialists will evaluate the joint tissue in the hinge of the jaw. For many cases, we will often suggest using a mouthguard to relieve teeth grinding at night. In serious cases, we will instruct you to use orthodontic appliances or retainers to alleviate discomfort or redirect positioning of the TMJ joint. For the most severe cases of TMJ, we may recommend certain invasive procedures.
At The Super Dentists, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain your healthiest smile possible. If you or your child is experiencing TMJ discomfort, please contact us to schedule an exam. We look forward to serving you!