TMJ and TMD Dentistry

What is the TMJ?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the two hinge-like joints that connect your lower jawbone (mandible) to the temporal bones on each side of your skull.

These joints, along with muscles, bone, and cartilage, allow you to open and close your mouth, move your jaw side-to-side, and speak, chew, yawn, and smile comfortably.

What is TMD?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs when these joints don’t work like they should. It causes pain, stiffness, and/or limited movement.

TMD can be caused by:

• Arthritis
• Jaw injuries
• Misaligned bites
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Infections
• Genetics

Sometimes, it’s a mix of factors that cause TMD, or the exact cause can remain unknown.

What are the symptoms of TMD?

You might have TMD if you notice:

• Jaw pain or discomfort while chewing
• Pain in your face, jaw, neck, or around your ear
• Earaches or ringing in your ears
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds while moving your jaw
• Limited jaw movement or jaw locking
• Bite changes or jaw muscle spasms

At Lotus Dental, Dr. Anne examines your jaw movement, checks for tenderness, and evaluates your head and neck. She could use X-rays or other scans to get a closer look at the joint and surrounding structures.

Which treatments are available for TMD?

Most TMD cases improve with conservative, nonsurgical care, including:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
• Ice packs or moist heat compresses
• Avoiding habits like gum chewing, nail biting, and jaw clenching
• Stress management and relaxation techniques
• Physical therapy
• Custom bite guards or splints to protect against teeth grinding
• Bite adjustments or orthodontic treatment for misalignment

Surgery is usually the last resort for severe cases that fail to respond to other treatments. Surgical choices include:

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is minimally invasive. It uses a tiny camera to examine and treat specific TMJ problems.

Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to repair, reposition, or replace damaged joint parts. It may involve removing bony growths or repairing the cushioning disc.

Should I see a dentist for jaw pain?

Yes. Jaw pain isn’t always TMD, but persistent symptoms require expert evaluation. Prompt treatment can relieve discomfort, restore normal jaw function, and prevent further damage.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or limited movement, visit Lotus Dental. Call the office or book an appointment online today for effective TMD treatment.