PROCEDURES


tmj and facial pain

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are a family of problems related to your complex jaw joint. If you have had symptoms like pain or a "clicking" sound, you'll be glad to know that these problems are more easily diagnosed and treated than they were in the past. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important.

No one treatment can resolve TMJ disorders completely and treatment takes time to be effective. The doctors at Northeast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can help you have a healthier and more comfortable jaw.


Trouble with Your Jaw?

TMJ disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. Or, you may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking or grating noises when you open your mouth, or trouble opening your mouth wide

Do You Have a TMJ Disorder?

  • Are you aware of grinding or habitually clenching your teeth?
  • Do you awaken with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
  • Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
  • Does pain increase when you clench your teeth?
  • Does stress make your clenching and grinding worse?
  • Does your jaw joint click, pop, grate, catch, or lock during opening or closing?
  • Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat or yawn?
  • Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaws?
  • Have you had problems (such as arthritis?) With other body joints?
  • Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
  • Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
  • Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
  • Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or severely worn?

The more times you answered "yes," the more likely it is that you have a TMJ disorder. Understanding TMJ disorders will also help you understand how they're treated.

Treatment

Once a complete evaluation leads to a diagnosis of your condition, a proper course of treatment can be planned. Often stress reduction is a key part, but there are various treatment options that can be utilized to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care and professional care.

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