Temporomandibular Joint

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

TMJ syndrome is an umbrella term covering acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the mandible to the skull. Symptoms often involve more than one of the numerous TMJ components: muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, bones, connective tissue, and the teeth. Ear pain associated with the swelling of proximal tissue can also be a symptom.

Typically, symptoms of TMJ syndrome include:

• pain or tenderness in the jaw
• aching pain in the ear
• difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
• aching facial pain
• locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
• headache
• uncomfortable bite
• an uneven bite, because one or more teeth are making premature contact.

TMJ disorders can also cause a clicking sound or grating sensation when you open your mouth or chew. If there's no pain or limitation of movement associated with your jaw clicking you probably don't have a TMJ disorder.

If you have any of these symptoms contact Gentle Dental Care to make a time for a consultation. Your Gentle Dental Care dentist will recommend what type of treatment is needed for your particular problem. Treatment may involve a series of steps and often only minor, relatively non-invasive treatment may be needed.