TMJ/TMD

JAW PAIN AND TMJ/TMD ISSUES

TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint. When issues occur with this joint, it can cause a range of disorders known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD for short. Inflammation in your jaw joint due to trauma or a variety of other causes can lead to TMD. Most people recognize the ‘clicking’ jawbone or headaches that come with TMJ/TMD. But did you know these conditions also cause major sleep disruption? We help assess jaw joint inflammation and can recommend solutions to help you sleep better—everything from bite guards to stress relief techniques before bed.

Symptoms of TMD

The symptoms of TMD are categorized as types of craniofacial pain. Craniofacial pain is a broad term used for encompassing all pain in the face and head, including those caused by temporomandibular disorders. Craniofacial pain can include the following symptoms:

Muscular/facial pain
Locking of the jaw
Clicking or popping of the jaw
Nerve disorders
Referred ear pain, fullness or ringing
Headaches
Neck pain

Treatment Options

TMJ treatment in Bridgeton MO usually involves a conservative therapy plan combined with the use of oral orthotics or “splints.”

Generally, we prescribe a splint for night usage, worn on the upper teeth that orthopedically positions the jaw joint. In addition some patients may require a splint for daytime use which are made to be worn on the bottom teeth, making it less noticeable, more comfortable, and easier to speak. In addition to using splints, other therapies for jaw pain treatment may include: