TMJ
Your jaw is a delicate part of your body. Because it is composed of several different components, your jaw is prone to malfunction. When a jaw stops working as it should, you experience discomfort and frustration. Identifying the problem and seeking treatment will help return harmony to your jaw function and relieve your pain.
TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the connecting point between your upper and lower jaws. Either of your TMJs (on the right or left side of your mouth) may become aggravated or inlamed. Ongoing problems can lead to a TMJ disorder, which is when the TMJ fails to function properly. Symptoms that may point to a TMJ problem include
- Swollen jaw
- Tenderness at the jaw
- A clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth
- A stiff, fatigued-feeling jaw
- Frequent headaches, earaches, or facial pain
TMJ Treatment
Dr. Lee will help you determine whether your discomfort stems from a TMJ problem. Depending on the complexity of your TMD (TMJ disorder), we may need to recommend you to a specialist. We will coordinate your treatment with a superb TMJ expert in the area.
Your TMJ treatment may involve:
- TMJ splint - Occlusal guards help to hold your jaw in its correct position. If your jaw disorder is a result of improperly aligned jaws or teeth grinding, a splint will help correct the problem.
- Relaxation techniques - TMD frequently arises as a result of chronic teeth grinding (bruxism). Learning to release your stress in other ways will help soothe your jaw joints.
- Orthodontic treatment - Malocclusion cause jaw problems. In some cases, orthodontic treatment will be necessary to correct your occlusion.
If you've been experiencing jaw pain, there are steps you can take to resolve the problem. Get in touch today to return your jaw to normal.