Advanced Care
TMJ Treatment
TMD is a problem with the jaw joints and the muscles that move them. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lets your jaw open, close and slide side to side. When the joint and muscles stop working smoothly together, the result can be jaw pain, headaches and clicking or locking. Call (248) 645-5222 or book a visit.
Symptoms
Signs of a TMJ Problem
- Jaw soreness or facial pain
- Headaches or neck pain
- Clicking, popping or a jaw that locks
- Trouble opening or closing your mouth
- Ringing in the ears
- Sensitive teeth
Causes
What Triggers TMD
Stress
Clenching and tension load the jaw muscles.
Grinding
Night-time teeth grinding overworks the joint.
Injury or arthritis
Damage to the joint itself.
Bite and posture
Poorly fitting dental work or posture problems.
Treatment
How TMD Is Treated
Most cases improve without surgery. Your dentist may recommend:
- A custom night guard to stop grinding
- Jaw-strengthening exercises and massage
- Ice and warm packs
- Posture training and stress reduction
TMD often comes and goes, and may flare up again in stressful periods.
Questions
TMJ FAQs
Can I use a store-bought mouth guard?
It's not recommended. A guard needs to fit your bite; one that doesn't can make things worse.
Will I need surgery?
Rarely. The large majority of patients are treated without surgery.