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TMJ Disorders Treatment in Rochester

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), also referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), are the most common source of chronic facial pain and jaw dysfunction. It is estimated that more than 10 million people in the United States are affected by temporomandibular joint problems.

What is the Temporomandibular Joint?

There are two temporomandibular joints that connect the left and right sides of the lower jaw to the temporal bone. Both joints and their associated muscles, ligaments and tendons work together to allow for all manner of oral function as the jaw moves up and down, front to back and from side to side. Containing a shock-absorbing, soft disc that sits between the rounded condyles of both sides of the lower jaw and the corresponding concavities in the skull’s temporal bone, the TMJ makes chewing, speaking, yawning and all jaw movements possible.

Since the TMJ is a joint with both up and down hinge-like movements, as well as side to side and front to back sliding motions to perform, it is often considered one of the most complicated joints in the body and one of the most difficult to treat when problems arise.

Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can fall into one or more of the following three categories:

  • Myofascial pain- Refers to pain in the area of the jaw joint due to various causes of increased muscle tension and spasm
  • Internal derangement-Involves displacement of the disc, jaw dislocation or trauma to the condyles of the jaw
  • Degenerative joint disease -Arthritis

The risk for developing a TMJ problem is greater in the presence of long-term teeth grinding or bruxism, a jaw injury or various types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Furthermore, the manifestations of a TMJ disorder can vary from person to person with a wide range of symptoms possible, including earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), headaches, back and neck pain, vertigo, muscle spasms and joint tenderness as well as jaw pain, popping or grating sounds with jaw movement, jaw locking and limited jaw movement. For some people a TMJ disorder can be resolved within a relatively short period of time, while for others it will continue to persist despite extensive therapy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When evaluating for the presence of a TMJ disorder, the dentist will perform a thorough clinical assessment of joint symptoms and function. Special radiographic imaging and other diagnostic tests will be ordered as needed. The treatment of a TMJ disorder may include oral appliances such as night guards or stabilization splints to alleviate strain on the joints. Other types of therapy may include steroid injections, occlusal adjustments as well as orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment to improve occlusion. In cases of persistent and serious TMJ problems, surgery may be recommended.

Methods of self-care can be helpful in alleviating some of the symptoms of a TMJ disorder. Patients are typically advised to eat soft foods, avoid extreme jaw movement such as wide yawning and gum chewing, to practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques and applying ice packs or moist heat as directed. If recommended, a patient should follow the dentist or therapist’s instruction for gentle stretching exercises. The short-term use of over-the-counter, non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may provide relief. If not the dentist or physician may prescribe stronger pain or anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants or anti-depressants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TMJ?

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Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ, TMD) is described as pain in the joint of the jaw and the muscles used in the jaw. TMJ can affect how you use your jaw when eating or the loss of control of your jaw in some cases. TMJ is treatable, and Dr. Quagliata at SMYLIQUE™ Dentistry is available to explain how she can help.

What are the side effects of TMJ?

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TMJ symptoms include pain and tenderness in your jaw and jaw muscles on one or both joints of your face. You may also notice an ache in or around your ear. You may experience difficulty chewing or pain while chewing as well.

In some cases, the joint in your jaw can become so tight that it may lock into place and you may not be able to open or close your mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact SMYLIQUE™ Dentistry for an evaluation.

How can TMJ be treated?

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TMJ can be cured in some cases, but can only be controlled in others. However, TMJ can be treated in many ways. Sometimes, a mild over-the-counter pain reliever stops the pain. Dr. Quagliata may use muscle relaxers, physical therapy, mouth guards, and other therapies to help relieve the painful symptoms of TMJ. In some cases, she may use Botox® to reduce the pain and swelling of your jaw.

She can also advise you on ways to prevent aggravating your pain, such as avoiding:

  • Leaning on your chin
  • Grinding your teeth
  • Clenching your jaw muscles
  • Biting your nails

Speaking with the staff at SMYLIQUE™ Dentistry right away can give you more information about relieving TMJ pain.

How long do results last?

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You may need to change your lifestyle to stop the symptoms of TMJ. As long as you maintain those lifestyle changes, the results continue. If you receive a Botox injection to treat your TMJ, you likely need to return for another treatment in about six to eight weeks.

Jaw pain or having your jaw lock into place can be annoying and possibly scary. If you would like more information and to get started on your personal treatment plan, call Dr. Quagliata at SMYLIQUE™ Dentistry in Rochester, New York, or book your appointment online.

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SMYLIQUE™ Dentistry
200 White Spruce Blvd
Suite 200
Rochester, NY 14623

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Tuesday:
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