TMJ Treatment in San Diego
What is TMJ (also known as TMD)?
The temporomandibular joints sit in front of your ears and connect your jaw to your skull. These joints slide and rotate and act as a hinge, allowing you to speak, chew, and so on. Normally, the joints are covered with cartilage and separated by a small disk that acts as a shock absorber. This keeps the jaw
moving smoothly.
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can cause pain in these joints and the surrounding muscles. Note that while TMD is the name of the disorder, TMJ (which stands for the joint) is often used interchangeably and is more commonly used.
Symptoms of TMJ
TMJ can be caused by genetics, arthritis, or a jaw injury. In some cases, the associated jaw misalignment or tension may also contribute to sleep apnea symptoms. Although TMJ is temporary in most cases, for others it can be a stubborn condition. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw or face
- Pain or tenderness in your temporomandibular joints or around your ears
- Difficulty chewing, sometimes accompanied by pain
- Locking up of the temporomandibular joint, making it difficult to open and close your mouth
- Clicking sound or grating sensation when moving your jaw
- Chronic headaches, including migraines
- Ear congestion and frequent ringing in the ears
Symptoms of TMJ are usually caused by jaw muscles that are overworked. If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, try to push your lower jaw straight forward and hold it there for a moment. Normally the jaw will slide forward and remain steady as you hold it there. If you feel excessive tightness or pain, you may
be have TMJ dysfunction.
Treatments for TMJ
We treat TMJ by first evaluating your bite. In the vast majority of cases TMJ symptoms arise due to overworked muscles. Correcting your bite can alleviate the stress put on the muscles and temporomandibular joints. In more complex or long-term cases, full mouth reconstruction may be recommended to restore optimal jaw function and bite alignment. This can be achieved in a non-invasive way without surgery and takes about half an hour. Results typically take a few weeks, after which we work to make those results lasting and permanent.
In particularly stubborn cases, Botox injections can provide months of lasting relief for those struggling with TMJ disorder. Known commonly as a way to eliminate wrinkles through procedures like a nonsurgical facelift, Botox also helps relieve TMJ pain by relaxing overactive jaw muscles. Botox can provide pain relief to patients with TMJ by relaxing those muscles, thereby reducing tightness in and around the jaw.
Schedule a consultation
TMJ can keep you from enjoying meals and even interrupt sleep. Don’t worry. We can help.