Deldar Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry & TMJ

The temporomandibular joints are located on either side of the face, just in front of both ears. These joints connect the jaw to the skull. The temporomandibular joint is a very complex joint, allowing us to open our mouth wide and move our jaw from side to side. However, when there is an imbalance in the temporomandibular joint, temporomandibular joint disorder, often referred to as TMD or TMJ, can result.

There are a number of symptoms of TMJ, including:

• Ringing in the ears
• Facial pain
• Neck pain
• Severe headaches, often confused with migraines
• Cracking of the jaw

Because the above-listed symptoms are rather common and do not occur in the mouth, most who experience them seek the help of a medical doctor. Since most do not think a dentist will be able to help them if they are experienced facial pain or headaches, TMJ often goes undiagnosed for a long period of time. TMJ is most often caused by a misaligned bite, however, and neuromuscular dentists are much more qualified to both diagnose and treat TMJ.

Treatment

Treatment for TMJ is usually given in three steps. First, the dentist will relax your jaw muscles by increasing the blood flow, which will relieve you of your pain. Second, a mouthpiece will be used in order to correct your bite. The third, and final, step will be to make this improved bite permanent. This can be achieved in a number of ways, including reconstruction or orthodontics.

If you live in the Indianapolis, Indiana are and would like to learn more about TMJ, please contact the experienced neuromuscular dentists at Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry & TMJ today for your initial consultation.