General Dentistry
What We Do

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to the side of your head. It is involved in the functions of talking, chewing and yawning. For people with TMJ dysfunction, pain in the joint and surrounding muscles occurs.  The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull. It is located in front of each ear on both sides TMJ dysfunction (TMD) causes pain and tenderness that affects about 5 – 15% of the US population. 

Factors that may create TMJ problems may include:

  • arthritis
  • a heavy, traumatic blow to the jaw
  • whiplash
  • clenching and grinding of teeth

Symptoms of TMD may include:

  • swelling
  • difficulty chewing
  • pain or tenderness in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders
  • difficulty opening your mouth
  • clicking and popping of the jaw
  • limited movement
  • headache
  • ear pain
  • dizziness
  • facial pain
  • a change in how your teeth fit together

Jaw pain may go away with minimal treatment. Some simple treatments may include: eating soft foods, icing the area, massage and using anti-inflammatory medication. Sometimes wearing a dental bite guard may help. If the patient is under significant stress, relaxation and coping skills may help.  On occasion, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.