TMJ Disorders

The Tempro Mandibular Joint is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. This is immediately in front of the ear on both sides of the head. The joints are flexible allowing the jaw to move smoothly in 6 directions: Front/back, left/right, open and close. When the jaw does not fit in the proper position in the socket, tempro mandibluar joint dysfunction may result.

While there is no clear cause of TMJ dysfunction, injury to the jaw, head and neck, tooth abrasion, grinding, clenching and degenerative arthritis are the most common causes.

The symptoms range from “popping” and soreness of the joint to severe muscle or joint pain. Common symptoms include tinnitis (ringing of the ears), limited ability to open the mouth wide, hold the mouth open for any period of time, locking of the jaw, popping and grating sounds in the joint when opening or closing the mouth. The pain can be acute (temporary but severe) or chronic (long term).

While there is no standard treatment, various types of therapy have been used to treat TMJ disorders. Treatment may include pain management with medications, muscle relaxants as well as diet control and limiting the hardness of foods eaten. Most therapy will include some type of splint or hard acrylic guard. Because the teeth determine the position of the lower jaw in the skull, adjusting the position of the teeth is usually performed and ranges from limited grinding of the surfaces of the teeth to full mouth restoration and building up of the teeth and bite. Dr. Weisbard would be glad to discuss your symptoms and make necessary recommendations.