TMJ Treatment

TMJ or temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects the lower jaw to your skull. This is one of the most complex joints in the entire body, capable of forward and backward movement, rotations, and side-to-side movements, it is the joint that allows you to talk, chew and yawn. TMJ often refers to complications and problems with this joint called temporomandibular joint disorders. There is no clear answer on what causes TMD, however professional believe that the symptoms arise with problems with the muscles, the jaw or the joint itself.

Injury to the jaw, grinding or clenching of your teeth, arthritis, stress and problems with the ball or and the socket of the joint, are some causes of TMD.  Some other causes include genetics, hormones, low-level infections, auto-immune diseases. Diagnosis and evaluation of such conditions are performed by our doctors, experienced in TMJ problems and treatments.

TMD causes pain and discomfort, can temporary or last for years.

Some symptoms of active TMD include:

• Limited movement of the lower jaw
• Clicking or popping sound of the joint
• Muscle spasms
• Locking of the jaw
• Pain in your face, jaw joint area and shoulders, around the ear when you chew or try to open your mouth wide.
• Swelling on one side of your face.
• You may experience toothaches, migraines, headaches, dizziness, earaches, upper shoulder pain or ringing in the ears.

Some common treatments are Night Guards, Bite Guards, and Bite Adjustments. Your dentist can guide you toward the best treatment for you. If you experience any TMJ problems or symptoms and you live in or around Indianapolis, call us NOW.