Facts, Disorders and Treatments For TMJ

TMJ is your Temporomandibular Joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull.  This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and from side to side. 

Facts:

• 1 in 8 Americans are currently affected by TMJ. 
• TMJ is 4 times more common in women than men.
• Men are found to have more wear on their teeth and bite. 

Causes:

• Head, neck and jaw misalignment.
• Genetics.
• Grinding or clenching teeth.
• Trauma.
• Diseases like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Arthritis.
• Stress.

Symptoms:

• Headache
• Aching pain in or around ear
• Jaw locking or popping
• Tenderness in the cheek and jaw
• Pain and difficultly eating
• Dizziness
• Sharp facial pain
• Facial swelling
• Neck and upper back spasms

Treatment:

• Dental splint that helps keep the teeth in alignment and prevents tooth grinding.
• Physical therapy with the jaw.
• Trigger point acupuncture.
• Botox to help relax the muscles of the jaw.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above see your dentist right away!