TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly referred to as TMJ, affect the jaw joint and can cause great pain for those who suffer from it. Individual symptoms vary but include facial, ear, or jaw joint pain; a jaw that locks, doesn’t open fully, or doesn’t open comfortably; a bite that feels uncomfortable, is continually changing, or just doesn’t feel right to the patient; headaches; pain in the neck, back, or shoulder; and swelling on the side of the face.

Patients with TMJ symptoms should not ignore them. TMJ can lead to very serious dental and facial problems, including cracked, worn, and severely damaged teeth and permanently damaged ligaments and tendons in and around the jaw. TMJ has been known to cause debilitating headaches and muscle soreness. Although the cause of TMJ is unknown and diagnosis is difficult, many treatments are available and range from the simple, such as wearing a splint, to the extreme, such as surgery. If you suffer from TMJ symptoms, there is help. For more information about TMJ diagnosis and treatment, contact our New York and New Jersey area practice today.