TMJ (Temporamandibular Joint) Therapy
Dentist Fountain Valley, CA
If you are experiencing jaw pain or discomfort, the office of Dr. Bijan Modjtahedi has experience treating issues that affect the alignment of your jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Dr. Bijan Modjtahedi will examine your TMJ for irregularities during your comprehensive or periodic exam in order to detect signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
What Does the Temporomandibular Joint Do?
The purpose of your TMJ is to allow your mouth to move both up and down and side to side. When it is properly aligned, your teeth meet in their optimal bite position, allowing regular functions such as chewing and speaking to occur properly and without discomfort.
Normal TMJ function is essential not only for chewing and speaking, but for overall comfort in your jaw. When your TMJ is misaligned, you may experience headaches, extreme pain in the jaw, and ear or sinus infections. We can identify and treat these alignment issues so that you do not experience additional concerns associated with TMD.
How Is TMD Treated?
There are several treatment methods available to treat TMD.
Custom-created mouthguards are crafted using a special machine that tracks the movements of your jaw. While you sleep, the mouthguards work at realigning your jaw and over time, they can permanently align your jaw to its optimal position. Full mouth restoration is an option for some patients. Full mouth restoration may be best suited for patients whose TMD cannot be treated with traditional mouthguards, or who have additional cosmetic concerns.
Dr. Bijan Modjtahedi has extensive experience in helping to reduce pain and perfect your smile. We will work closely with you to determine the treatment plan that is most ideally suited to your individual needs.
Many of our patients suffer from TMJ disorders that cause discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas. It is critical that our patients understand TMJ in order to treat it effectively.
Common Questions About TMJ Therapy
Patients with TMJ issues have many common questions. If you have further questions, please call the Bijan Family Dental Practice team at (714) 421-4494 for a consultation today.
What is TMJ?
TMJ, the temporomandibular joint, is the hinged connection between the jawbone and the skull that facilitates chewing and speaking. This joint plays a crucial role in all mouth and jaw functions. TMJ disorders, or TMD, cause pain, discomfort, and dysfunction in the jaw and the muscles that control it. Symptoms of TMD include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty moving the mouth.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders, also known as TMD, have many different causes that result in disruption of normal jaw movement. Common causes include injury to the jaw, arthritis, and structural abnormalities. In addition, stress leads to teeth clenching or grinding, which puts excessive pressure on the joint. Other factors include poor posture that affect the neck, or misalignment of the teeth and jaw. Many different factors lead to the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement of TMJ disorders.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?
Common symptoms include persistent pain or tenderness in the jaw, aches in and around the ear, and difficulty or discomfort while chewing. Also, patients may experience a locked jaw joint that will not open or close fully. Clicking, popping, and grating sounds are typical symptoms, as well as facial pain or swelling. In severe cases, TMJ disorders lead to headaches, neck pain, and fatigued jaw muscles. These symptoms vary in intensity and duration, and are influenced by stress, jaw movement, or other health conditions.
How is TMJ Diagnosed?
We diagnose TMJ disorder by starting with a detailed review of medical history and a physical examination of the jaw. During the examination, we check for signs of tenderness, clicking, popping, and restricted jaw movement. Imaging such as X-Rays may be used to provide a clear view of the jawbone, joints, and surrounding tissues, in order to help us identify any structural problems. Lastly, we may perform a bite analysis to assess the alignment of the teeth and jaw. In some cases, a referral to a specialist may be required to treat some TMJ disorders effectively.
What Treatments Are Available for TMJ?
TMJ disorders can be managed through a variety of treatments. Initial treatments start with self care practices such as applying ice or heat to the affected area, eating soft foods, and avoiding excessive jaw movements. Medications may be used to help alleviate symptoms. Physical therapy exercises strengthen jaw muscles and improve range of motion, and are often beneficial. Dental interventions such as bite guards or splints may be recommended to correct misalignment and reduce teeth grinding. If these measures are ineffective, more advanced treatments like steroid injections, or even surgical procedures may be considered to address structural issues.
