TMJ Disorders and Treatment Option in Laurel, MD

What is a TMJ Disorder?

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. These disorders can affect one or both sides of the jaw and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including jaw pain, ear pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Understanding TMJ disorders and the available treatment options can help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, located just in front of your ears. TMJ disorders can involve the muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and bones that make up the joint.

TMJ Disorders and Treatment in Laurel, MD – Excite Dental

Common symptoms of TMJ disorders

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Jaw Pain

Pain in the jaw joint, which may be constant or come and go.

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Ear Pain

Pain that feels like it is coming from the ear but is actually from the jaw joint.

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Clicking or Popping Sounds

Sounds when you open or close your mouth, chew, or yawn.

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Locking of the Jaw

Difficulty opening or closing the mouth completely.

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Headaches

Frequent headaches, especially in the temples.

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Difficulty Chewing

Pain or discomfort while chewing or biting.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders

Self-Care Practices

Simple self-care practices can help alleviate symptoms, including:

  • Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve jaw function.
  • Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat or ice packs to the affected area can reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Stress Management: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help reduce stress and muscle tension.

Medications

We may prescribe medications to manage pain and inflammation, such as:

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain.
  • Muscle Relaxants: Short-term use of muscle relaxants can help relieve muscle tension.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation in the jaw joint.

Oral Appliances

Custom-made oral appliances, such as night guards or splints, can help reduce teeth grinding and jaw clenching. These devices are worn over your teeth and help to stabilize the jaw.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help improve jaw movement and reduce pain. A physical therapist may use techniques like massage, ultrasound, and exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles.

Botox Injections

Botox (botulinum toxin) injections can be used to relax the muscles involved in jaw movement, providing relief from pain and dysfunction.

Dental Treatments

In some cases, dental treatments may be necessary to address underlying issues, such as:

  • Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or other orthodontic treatments can help correct misalignment of the teeth and jaw.
  • Restorative Dentistry: Crowns, bridges, or veneers can help balance the biting surfaces of the teeth and improve jaw function.

Surgical Options

In severe cases, surgery may be considered to repair or replace the damaged joint. Surgical options include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, and open joint surgery.

TMJ Disorders F.A.Q.

What causes TMJ Disorders?

These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Arthritis: Inflammation of the joint due to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Jaw Injury: Trauma to the jaw, such as from a car accident or sports injury.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep.
  • Misalignment of Teeth or Jaw: Improper alignment can put extra stress on the TMJ.
  • Stress: Emotional or psychological stress can lead to muscle tension and jaw clenching.
Diagnosis of TMJ Disorders

Diagnosing TMJ disorders typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. At Excite Dental of Laurel, we will: 

  1. Review Your Medical History: Discuss your symptoms, any previous jaw injuries, and habits like teeth grinding.
  2. Physical Examination: Examine your jaw, bite, and facial muscles for tenderness, clicking, or popping sounds.
  3. Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to get detailed images of the jaw joint and surrounding structures.