TMJ Disorder

TMJ can be treated through a variety of treatment options. If you experience jaw pain, there are ways to diagnose and treat it so you can live peacefully.

TMJ Disorder

If you experience aching jaw pain, tenderness in the jaw joints, or pain when chewing, you may have a Temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The most well-known TMD is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ). The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It’s located right beneath the ears on both sides of the face.

What are TMDs?

Temporomandibular disorders are a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and surrounding muscles. The TMJs are complex hinge joints located on either side of your face, just in front of your ears. They play a crucial role in everyday functions like chewing, talking, and yawning.

Causes of TMDs

While the exact causes of TMDs aren’t always clear, several factors can contribute to their development, including:

Illustration of a blue hinge joint on a raised white circle on a blue background
  • How do I know if I have TMJ?

    There is no way to diagnose yourself, but there are common symptoms you can look for. If you have any of these symptoms and they don’t resolve on their own, you will need to see a dentist for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.

    In most cases, jaw, ear, or facial pain is temporary and resolves on its own. However, if the pain is persistent and over the counter medications or home remedies no longer work, give us a call.

    Common signs and symptoms include:

    • Pain in your jaw
    • Jaw is tender to the touch
    • Ear pain
    • You have pain while chewing
    • Facial pain that you would describe as ‘achy’
    • Locking of the jaw joint — getting stuck in an open or closed position
    • Headaches
  • What causes TMJ Disorder?

    Often we can’t tell the exact cause of TMJ, which can be frustrating for you and for us. However, there are several factors we can look for to see if any apply. Some of the common causes of TMJ can be erosion of the disk that is between the bones, or the disk can slip out of place. You might also have pain if you have arthritis in the jaw joint.

    Trauma can also cause damage leading to chronic pain. Some people who grind their teeth at night are more prone to TMJ as are people who have high levels of stress. There may also be a genetic component to TMJ.

  • How do you diagnose TMJ Disorder?

    We will first discuss any risk factors that may be contributing to your pain. We’ll then do an examination that includes listening to your jaw, feeling it move, and pressing areas to determine where the pain is coming from. We will also take x-rays or 3D images. If we think it’s necessary, some patients need an MRI to see if the disk or soft tissues are damaged.

    Medications

    We will recommend starting with over the counter pain relievers. Tylenol or Ibuprofen can be successful in treating minor pain and inflammation. Beyond that, some doctors prescribe a type of antidepressant that helps with bruxism control and sleep. Muscle relaxants can offer relief for some patients as well.

    Oral appliances

    Oral appliances can be effective in treating TMJ. We have both hard and soft appliances that can be worn at night to relieve bruxism. Not only do they help with TMJ, but they protect the teeth from wearing down. They also help keep another dental work safe from too much pressure which can cause cracking and breaking. Our night guards are custom fit for you. They are worn during sleep and are comfortable. If oral appliances don’t work, you may need surgical intervention. We can discuss options with you at your appointment.

    Alternative pain relief options and treatments

    Besides medication and oral appliances, there are other alternative options that may help relieve pain or stress. They include:

    • Avoiding foods that overwork the jaw muscles
    • Applying heat and cold to the area
    • Acupuncture
    • Meditation or other relaxation strategies
    • Massage
    • Physical therapy

    Beyond these treatments, there are surgical options for treating TMJ. We prefer a conservative approach to treatment first, but if you don’t find relief we can help connect you with a doctor who can examine your case and let you know if surgical intervention is appropriate.

Your Comfort is Our Priority

We offer a variety of dental services to detect, diagnose, and treat dental issues while keeping your comfort a priority at all times. Learn more about our services or make an appointment with us today.

Blue Ash Dentistry

10427 Kenwood Road
Cincinnati, OH 45242
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Hours

Mon: 8AM - 4PM
Tues: 8AM - 5PM
Wed: 8AM - 5PM
Thur: 8AM - 5PM
Fri: 8AM - 3PM
Sat-Sun: Closed

Phone

513-984-3817

Fax

513-984-3818

Email Address

blueash@mooreheaddentistry.com

Batavia Dentistry

285 East Main Street #6
Batavia, OH 45103
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Hours

Mon: 8AM - 5PM
Tues: 8AM - 5PM
Wed: 8AM - 4PM
Thur: 8AM - 5PM
Fri: 8AM - 3PM
Sat/Sun: Closed

Phone

513-732-0541

Fax

513-732-0552

Email Address

batavia@mooreheaddentistry.com

Lebanon Dentistry

1521 Walmart Drive #301
Lebanon, OH 45036
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Hours

Mon: 8AM - 4PM
Tues: 8AM - 5PM
Wed: 8AM - 5PM
Thurs: 8AM - 5PM
Fri: 8AM - 3PM
Sat/Sun: Closed

Phone

513-282-6200

Fax

513-282-6201

Email Address

lebanon@mooreheaddentistry.com