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TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are a family of problems related to your complex jaw joint. If you have had symptoms like pain or a "clicking" sound, you'll be glad to know that these problems are more easily diagnosed and treated than they were in the past. These symptoms occur when the joints of the jaw and the chewing muscles (muscles of mastication) do not work together correctly. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the name for each joint (right and left) that connects your jaw to your skull. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important.
No one treatment can resolve TMJ disorders completely and treatment takes time to become effective. Please call us if you would like a TMJ consultation in Lincoln, NE, 402.421.3401.
Trouble with Your Jaw?
TMJ disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. You may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Injuries and arthritis can damage the joint directly or stretch or tear the muscle or its ligaments. As a result, the temporomandibular joint disk, which is made of cartilage and functions as the “cushion” of the jaw joint, can slip out of position. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, joint noises, and difficulty opening or closing your jaw.
TMJ Treatment
There are various treatment options that Dr. Glenn can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, he will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care joined with professional care.
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The initial goals are to reduce the muscle spasm and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory or muscle relaxant. Steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include:
- Resting your jaw
- Keeping your teeth apart when you are not swallowing or eating
- Eating soft foods
- Applying moist heat (hot washcloth)
What about bite correction or surgery?
If your TMJ disorder has caused problems with how your teeth fit together, you may need treatment such as bite adjustment (equilibration), orthodontics with or without corrective jaw surgery, or restorative dental work. Surgical options such as arthroscopy and open joint surgery are sometimes needed but are reserved for severe cases.
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