TMJ
Dallas, TX
 Your temporomandibular joints are the joints in your mouth where your lower jaw meets your skull. These are ball and socket joints with a small disc in the center. Commonly called the TMJ, these joints allow you to move your mouth, enabling you to eat, speak, yawn, and so much more. They typically work without you even knowing it. However, if the joints become irritated and inflamed, even the most basic movements of your mouth can become excruciating. At Dallas Prosthodontics, we can provide you with the treatment you need to alleviate your temporomandibular joint pain and restore the functions of your mouth.
TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder is a term that refers to the issues that affect the health and functioning of your temporomandibular joints and your mouth. These issues cause your TMJ to become irritated and inflamed. When this happens, you may experience excruciating pain while eating, speaking, or even just opening your mouth.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can be caused by several different issues. Common issues that can lead to TMJ disorder include:
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Facial trauma
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Dislocating your jaw
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Bruxism
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Certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis |
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
When TMJ disorder first begins, you may not even be aware that there is an issue. Symptoms appear minor, barely noticeable. However, the longer the cause goes untreated, the worse the symptoms become. There are many symptoms that can point to TMJ disorder.
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Pain in your TMJ, your jaw, and your face
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Facial and jaw swelling
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Excessive, uneven tooth wear
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Trouble and pain, eating and speaking
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Clicking, popping, or grinding in the joints
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Temporary lockjaw
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Headaches and earaches |
Treatment Options
When you notice symptoms of TMJ disorder, it is important that you seek treatment right away. The type of treatment you receive depends upon the cause. Treatments include:
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Over the counter pain relievers
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Stress relief techniques such as yoga or meditation
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A night guard
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Botox injections
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Orthodontics
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Oral surgery |
Surgery for TMJ Disorder
In many cases, TMJ disorder can be treated non-surgically, and it is often recommended that non-surgical treatments be tried first. However, if your situation is more severe, or no other treatments have proven effective, you may be recommended for oral surgery. There are a few different surgical procedures that may be provided.
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Arthrocentesis. This is a minor surgical procedure. Small needles are inserted into the TMJ to wash them out. We may also use specialized tools to remove damaged tissue, dislodge a disc, or even dislodge the joint itself.
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Arthroscopy. Arthroscopy is done using a tool called an arthroscope. This is a small tool that is equipped with a light and a small camera. The camera is inserted into small incisions to examine the joint. We are also able to remove inflammation and realign the disc or joint.
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Open jaw surgery. Open jaw surgery is the most invasive surgical option for TMJ. It may be recommended if the bone has been excessively worn, there are bone fragments present, or there are large amounts of scar tissue. The entire jaw is opened so that we can examine it and perform necessary treatment. Because it is so invasive, open jaw surgery is generally saved as a last resort. |
With the right treatment, your TMJ pain can be alleviated, restoring normal functions to your mouth and your quality of life. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Dallas Prosthodontics today at (972) 503-7200.
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