Williamsburg TMJ
TMJ is short for “temperomandibular joint”, and refers to the ball-in-socket joint that connects the jaw to the skull. Put your finger in front of your ear and open and close your mouth: you’ll easily feel that joint moving like a hinge. TMJ disorder refers to a set of symptoms involving the joint, normally characterized by pain, swelling, soreness, changes in bite pattern, and a telltale clicking or popping noise in the jaw. A common ailment, TMJ disorder has no one cause or treatment, and can also vary in severity.
Common TMJ symptoms include:
- Pain and soreness in the jaw, especially when opening and closing the mouth
- Clicking or popping noise in the jaw
- Frequent headaches or earaches
- Trouble or stiffness while using the jaw
- Changes in bite
Treatment is as unique as the patient’s experience with TMJ pain, but may include orthodontics to change teeth or bite position, jaw adjustments, a bite appliance, or physical therapy. Dr. Contract will examine your jaw and take x-rays to diagnose your issue and develop a TMJ treatment plan to relieve your symptoms.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, or have any reason to believe there might be an issue with your TMJ joint, don’t keep it to yourself! Williamsburg Smiles can help you feel better and reduce those bothersome TMJ problems, the sooner the better.
If you need more information about TMJ in Williamsburg, contact us today.