The disorders of the jaw joint, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ), can be both dental and medical problems. For example, TMJ disorders can result from medical conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia or dental conditions like teeth grinding (bruxism).
Your TMJ dentist can spot signs of the disorder and develop a treatment plan to relieve your jaw pain and reduce your symptoms.
What Is TMJ?
TMJ is short for "temporomandibular joint," the hinge joint connecting the lower mandible to the skull. TMJ disorders can cause jaw pain and make eating, speaking, and yawning difficult.
Common signs of TMJ are:
- Jaw or facial pain and soreness
- Headaches
- Ear pain
- Popping or clicking of the jaws, especially when eating or yawning
- Trouble opening the mouth or talking
- Pain when biting and chewing
- Lockjaw or jaw stiffness
- Bruxism or tooth wear
Identifying these signs is the first step in addressing your TMJ problem and finding a solution.
Options for TMJ Therapy in Northport
Dr. Jeffrey Rubin offers TMJ therapy, including oral appliances and oral surgery in Northport.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliances fit comfortably in the mouth and reduce the pressure on orofacial muscles that help us chew and speak. When these muscles are overworked or sore, it can cause issues with opening and closing the mouth. Oral appliances at our dental office are designed to help patients with TMJ issues so their joints can heal.
Oral Surgery for TMJ
Sometimes, people with severe TMJ disorders might need oral surgery to expose the space between the joints, repair cushioning discs, remove bone spurs, and improve overall function, mobility, and comfort. Some standard oral surgery procedures for TMJ include arthroplasty, arthrocentesis, and arthroscopy.
Your dentist can determine which treatment best suits your needs and goals and can improve your condition.
Call Us About TMJ Therapy in Northport, NY
Dealing with TMJ issues can make everyday activities like eating and speaking challenging. Fortunately, you don’t have to endure ongoing jaw pain and dysfunction.
If you’re experiencing TMJ pain or stiffness, contact our dental office to schedule an appointment with our TMJ specialist. At Northport Family Dental, we are committed to providing comprehensive care, including oral surgery in Northport if necessary, to help relieve your discomfort and restore function.
We look forward to helping you find relief!