Addressing TMJ Disorders: A Guide for Sufferers

Living with a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can be extremely uncomfortable. If you're experiencing jaw pain, difficulty speaking or eating, or limited movement in your jaw, you're not alone. In fact, more than 10 million people across the country are affected by TMJ disorders. However, there is hope! At TMJ & Sleep Center of Metropolitan NJ, our dedicated staff offer effective diagnostic and therapeutic care to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ problems.

Understanding Your Jaw's Complex Structure

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is located in front of each ear and is responsible for all jaw movements. When functioning properly, your left and right TMJs work together seamlessly to facilitate a wide range of motion. These joints are designed to handle an enormous amount of stress from movement and biting forces up to 260 pounds at the molars.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

While your TMJs are built to withstand a lot of strain, they can still become dysfunctional due to overuse, inflammation, or injury. Several problems can disturb this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones, resulting in a painful and annoying TMJ disorder. Some common symptoms include:

• Clicking, cracking, or popping noises when moving the jaw
• Earaches
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Back and neck pain
• Vertigo
• Muscle spasms
• Jaw locking or limited jaw movement.

Personalized Care for TMJ Disorders

At TMJ & Sleep Center of Metropolitan NJ, our office is committed to providing the highest quality of care. We'll begin by thoroughly reviewing your case history and conducting a comprehensive assessment of your joint symptoms and function. Depending on your specific needs, treatment for a TMJ disorder may include:

• Oral appliances such as night guards or stabilization splints to alleviate strain on the joints
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Botox® injections to relax muscles and ease tension around the jaw
• Occlusal adjustments to improve your bite and alleviate symptoms
• Restorative, prosthodontic, or orthodontic care to improve function and overall oral health.

Our dedicated staff is here to help you find relief from the discomfort of TMJ disorders. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in achieving optimal jaw function and comfort.

By TMJ & Sleep Center of Metropolitan NJ

April 30, 2024