TMJ

TMJ disorders can make simple tasks like chewing or opening and closing your mouth difficult and painful. Let Farah Ahmad, DDS, Sumra Ahmad, DDS, and Saira Ahmad, DDS, at Smile Dental Clinic in Falls Church and Herndon, Virginia, provide their special brand of personalized TMJ treatment to restore your quality of life. They can diagnose the root cause of your TMJ disorder and prescribe the appropriate course of treatment with precision. To find out more about treatment, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is a TMJ disorder? 

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on either side of your head, directly in front of your ears. Each TMJ functions much like a sliding hinge, linking your jawbone to your skull. Proper TMJ function allows you to chew, speak, and open your mouth without pain or problems. 

On the other hand, if your TMJ is damaged or inflamed, the condition can affect certain muscles and other tissues that allow healthy, pain-free jaw movement. In many cases, the pain or discomfort related to TMJ disorder is temporary and subsides on its own. However, in some cases, professional treatment is necessary to restore normal jaw function.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:  

• Aching facial pain
• Clicking or popping noises when opening and closing your mouth
• Pain while chewing
• Pain around your ears
• Trouble opening and closing your mouth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and they don’t subside on their own within a few days, you should see the team at Smile Dental Clinic for a precise diagnosis. 

What causes TMJ disorders?

This can be a complicated question. TMJ disorders don’t always have an identifiable cause. In some instances, genetics, arthritic conditions, or jaw injuries inflame the joints and muscles near the TMJ.

One of the most common causes of TMJ disorders is clenching or grinding your teeth. Medically, this is known as bruxism. Constantly clenching your teeth, especially at night, can lead to the misalignment of your jaw muscles and ultimately may bring on a TMJ disorder. 

How are TMJ disorders treated? 

Unlike most family dentistry practices, Smile Dental Clinic has an on-site orthodontist specializing in TMJ issues and sleep medicine. They perform thorough clinical assessments of joint symptoms and function. This type of assessment involves discussing your symptoms and sleep patterns with you, as well as receiving a comprehensive physical examination. 

The team at Smile Dental Clinic may also opt for special radiographic imaging and other diagnostic tests to obtain an accurate diagnosis. 

At Smile Dental Clinic, TMJ treatment is always personalized to fit your needs. Your customized treatment plan could include wearing an oral appliance, such as a night guard or stabilization splint, that helps relieve strain on the joints. Other types of recommended therapy include occlusal adjustments and orthodontic treatment. 

In cases of chronic TMJ problems, a referral to a specialized surgeon may be the most appropriate course of action. 

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, call Smile Dental Clinic or request an appointment online today.