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TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are a family of
problems related to your complex jaw joint. If you have had
symptoms like pain or a "clicking" sound, you'll be glad to
know that these problems are more easily diagnosed and
treated than they were in the past. Since some types of TMJ
problems can lead to more serious conditions, early
detection and treatment are important.
No one treatment can resolve TMJ disorders completely and
treatment takes time to be effective. Drs. Heine can help
you have a healthier and more comfortable jaw.
Trouble with Your Jaw?
TMJ disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or
grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing
your TM joint. Or, you may have a damaged jaw joint due to
injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may
include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking or grating noises
when you open your mouth, or trouble opening your mouth
wide.
Do You Have a TMJ Disorder?
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Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
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Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around the jaw?
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Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
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Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
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Does stress make your clenching or pain worse?
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Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you
open your mouth?
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Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat, or
yawn?
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Have you injured your neck, head, or jaws?
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Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other
joints?
The more times you answered "yes," the more likely it is
that you have a TMJ disorder. Understanding TMJ disorders
will also help you understand how they're treated.
Treatment
There are various surgical and non-surgical treatment
options that Drs. Heine can utilize to improve the harmony
and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a
diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Drs. Heine will determine the
proper course of treatment. It is important to note that
treatment always works best with a team approach of
self-care as well as professional care.
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