Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can cause chronic pain that diminishes your quality of life. At Tomase Dental Care in Toledo, Ohio, board-certified family and general dentist Timothy Tomase, DDS uses state-of-the-art equipment and technology to treat TMJ disorders. Dr. Tomase can relieve your pain and restore proper jaw and facial muscle function. To learn more, call Tomase Dental Care or schedule an appointment online today.
TMJ Services in Toledo
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder is the catchall term for problems involving the temporomandibular joints. These sliding-hinge joints control the ability to open and close your mouth. They also help you chew, speak, and rest your jaw in a comfortable position. Any damage to the temporomandibular joints or the muscles that support them can cause TMJ disorder. Without treatment, TMJ disorder worsens over time.
What are the different types of TMJ disorder?
The most common types of TMJ disorder are:
Degenerative joint disease
Over time, the temporomandibular joints can deteriorate from wear and tear. Osteoarthritis, a form of joint inflammation, is one of the most likely causes of degenerative joint disease. Rheumatoid arthritis and a damaged disk can also cause this condition.
Internal joint derangement
Outside of the temporomandibular joint is a disc that allows jaw motion. Injury to this disc can lead to displacement, shifting your jaw into a less comfortable position.
Myofascial pain disorder
Myofascial pain disorder affects the muscles that support the temporomandibular joints. Daytime clenching and bruxism (teeth grinding) can lead to sore, tense, and painful jaw muscles.
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Telltale symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
Dr. Tomase performs a comprehensive dental exam and takes X-rays to diagnose TMJ disorder. Determining the type of TMJ disorder you have allows him to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses your symptoms.
What causes TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder doesn’t always have an obvious cause, but certain risk factors can trigger the condition, including:
Addressing the underlying cause of TMJ disorder may help relieve your symptoms and prevent additional joint damage.
What are the treatments for TMJ disorder?
The best treatment for TMJ disorder is to realign the lower jaw to relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joints. To shift your jaw into a more comfortable position, Dr. Tomase can create a custom nightguard. Nightguards cover your teeth to protect against enamel erosion and allow your jaw to rest comfortably.
Other at-home TMJ disorder remedies include: