According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, an estimated 10 million Americans suffer from a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This condition can cause jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, ringing ears, and neck, back and shoulder aches. While there are many reasons why you may develop a TMJ disorder, treatment from Dr. Passidomo can help alleviate these symptoms while correcting the positioning of your jaw for lasting relief. To learn more about TMJ disorders and to be evaluated for this condition, please contact us today.

What is TMJ Disorder?

A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a condition which affects the temporomandibular joints of the jaw and can also cause pain and stiffness in the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the jaw. These parts work together to allow you to open and close your mouth to eat, speak, laugh, and sneeze.

The temporomandibular joints connect your mandible (the lower jaw) to your maxilla (the upper jaw). Unfortunately, they can sometimes become overworked due to things like bite problems, past oral trauma, or even bruxism (teeth grinding). When this occurs, the joints can sustain additional tension, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

While each patient is different, there are several key symptoms that you may experience if you have a TMJ disorder, including:

• Jaw pain and tenderness
• Lockjaw
• A clicking or popping sound when you open and close your mouth
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Neck and back pain
• Pain or difficulty when chewing
• Pain behind the eyes
• Limited mouth movement
• Bite changes

Types of TMJ Treatment

At your diagnostic exam, Dr. Passidomo will take X-rays of your mouth and jaw joints as well as examine them in person. Once he has a clearer understanding of your condition, he will discuss your treatment options and help you determine which solution(s) will work best based on your unique needs.

There are several factors that could be causing your temporomandibular joint problem, such as genetics or a previous injury, and the type and duration of your treatment will depend on its underlying cause.

Occlusal Splint

An occlusal splint is an oral appliance that can help protect your teeth from grinding, which can worsen TMJ disorder symptoms. These splints are customized to fit your individual mouth to help shift your jaw slightly forward, allowing your joints rest comfortably and providing long-term relief from stiffness, tenderness, and chronic TMJ pain.

Equilibration

Bite problems are among the most common causes of TMJ disorders. Often, they can develop when dental restorations or work aren’t properly cemented into the mouth. This can create an uneven distribution of force on your temporomandibular joints, throwing them off balance.

Occlusal adjustment involves Dr. Passidomo calculating your bite and buffing down certain restorations or fillings that are causing the misalignment in your biteforce. This in turn will help your facial muscles and connective tissue to relax, relieving jaw pain and stiffness.