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CherryDemo

Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialist

Fellow of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jawbone to your skull and play a vital role in everyday functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When these joints become misaligned or inflamed, they can cause discomfort and limit jaw movement—a condition commonly known as TMJ disorder or TMD.
TMJ Disorders
Understanding TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can arise from a variety of factors including teeth grinding, jaw injury, arthritis, or stress. Symptoms often include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. A consultation with an oral surgeon can help determine the root cause and appropriate treatment.
The temporomandibular joint acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side. When this joint is not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of painful symptoms known collectively as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
  • Locking of the jaw joint
  • Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
  • Frequent headaches or neck pain

Causes of TMJ Disorders

  • Jaw injury or trauma
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
  • Arthritis in the TMJ
  • Stress-related muscle tension
  • Dislocation or misalignment of the joint

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosing TMJ disorders typically involves a physical exam, review of symptoms, and imaging such as x-rays or CT scans. Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment may include:

  • Oral appliances (night guards or splints)
  • Physical therapy or jaw exercises
  • Medication to relieve pain or reduce inflammation
  • Stress management techniques
  • Surgical intervention for severe cases

When to See an Oral Surgeon

If conservative treatments are not effective or if your symptoms worsen, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can evaluate whether surgical correction is appropriate. Surgical options may include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open joint surgery.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, limited movement, or other TMJ symptoms, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term joint damage and significantly improve your quality of life.