TMJ Treatment

PTMJ Treatment Understanding TMJ and TMD

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow your jaw to move when you speak, chew, and yawn.

When problems affect these joints or the surrounding muscles, they are commonly referred to as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. TMD can have a variety of causes, and symptoms can range from mild and occasional to more persistent. Since jaw discomfort does not always indicate a TMJ disorder, a thorough evaluation is important for understanding your symptoms and determining the appropriate next steps.

Common Signs and Symptoms of TMD Symptoms associated with TMD can vary from person to person and may include:

Jaw pain or tenderness around the jaw joints

Clicking, popping, or other sounds when opening or closing the mouth

Difficulty or discomfort when chewing

Limited jaw movement or difficulty opening the mouth

Jaw locking or catching

Facial pain or discomfort

Headaches that may be associated with jaw tension

What Causes TMD?

TMD does not always have a single identifiable cause. Symptoms may be related to several factors involving the jaw joints, muscles, or surrounding structures. Since similar symptoms can have different causes, treatment should be based on an individual evaluation rather than symptoms alone. Evaluating TMJ Concerns If you are experiencing jaw pain, limited movement, or other symptoms that may be related to TMD, our orthodontists will assess your jaw function, bite, and areas of concern. We will also discuss your symptoms and how they may be affecting your daily activities. Depending on what we find, additional evaluation or care from another dental or medical professional may be recommended. Our goal is to help determine the appropriate next steps based on your needs.

Treatment for TMD

Treatment for TMD depends on the nature and severity of your symptoms and their underlying cause. If treatment is recommended, our orthodontists will discuss options based on your specific situation. If your needs fall outside the scope of orthodontic care, we may recommend evaluation by another dental or medical specialist.

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation

If jaw pain, limited movement, or other TMJ-related symptoms are affecting you, an evaluation can help determine what may be contributing to your concerns and what next steps may be appropriate.

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Burke Family Orthodontics to discuss your symptoms and learn more about your options for care.