TMJ Dentist
Specialist in Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
At Cedar Grove Dental Group, we offer TMJ dentist treatment to help patients find relief from jaw discomfort, soreness, and pain. Our team of dental professionals will carefully evaluate your condition to determine the best course of treatment. To schedule an evaluation and begin TMJ treatment, please call (973) 857-0567 today.
The Significance of Temporomandibular Joints
The mouth contains two temporomandibular joints, one on each side, which connect the jaw to the rest of the face. These joints allow for up and down as well as side to side movement, enabling essential activities like talking, laughing, and eating. Inside the joints, cartilage provides protection, while a special disk offers cushioning between the ball and socket. Muscles and tendons connected to the jaw help hold it in place and aid in movement.
“Besides moving up and down, they also provide motion from side to side.”
Issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
Damage to the individual components of the TMJ can result in various serious issues, such as:
- Severe headaches
- Ear pain
- Chronic TMJ pain
- Tight facial muscles
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Temporomandibular disorders, also known as TMD, are often referred to as TMJ. A dentist specializing in TMJ can effectively treat joint pain symptoms through a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and advanced treatment methods.
“These conditions are known as temporomandibular disorders or TMD.”
Reasons for Patients to Receive a Dental Crown
Some patients opt for dental crowns to prevent further damage or decay in a tooth or to preserve a visually appealing smile. Crowns also play a crucial role in averting tooth loss, which can otherwise lead to additional oral health issues and costly dental procedures. Additionally, patients may choose crowns to maintain a proper bite and prevent teeth from shifting.
“Crowns also help prevent tooth loss that could lead to additional oral health problems and more expensive dental work.”
TMD Causes
Medical experts do not have a definitive answer on the exact cause of TMD. The Mayo Clinic suggests that pain may result from a mix of physical and genetic factors. Specific conditions can heighten the likelihood of experiencing TMJ issues or worsening pain.
- Arthritis: Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can damage jaw cartilage, exposing sensitive nerves and leading to chronic pain and tissue inflammation.
- Jaw Injury: A sudden blow or fracture can harm the TMJ and related bones, cartilage, or disks, causing severe pain from misalignment or damage.
- Dislocation: A dislocated jaw can have lasting effects on the tendons, cartilage, and muscles in the affected area.
- Tooth Alignment Issues: Severely misaligned teeth, whether congenital or developed, can increase discomfort in the jaw joints and cause improper wear.
- Chronic Grinding or Clenching of Teeth: Constant teeth grinding or clenching increases the risk of TMD and complicates inflammation treatment.
- Stress: High stress levels can lead to TMJ pain and inflammation due to teeth grinding or clenching.
“According to the Mayo Clinic, pain may be due to a combination of physical and genetic factors.”
A TMJ specialist dentist can treat TMJ issues
There are numerous treatments available to alleviate TMJ pain. Some focus on reducing inflammation and strengthening jaw muscles, while others aim to promote relaxation and ease tense muscles and tendons. Additionally, TMJ dentists can provide relief by correcting poor dental alignment, allowing the TMJ muscles to function smoothly and preventing clenching and grinding. Special orthodontic appliances or mouth guards can also help reduce the effects of teeth grinding at night.
