TMJ Treatment
Relieve your pain with our customized TMJ treatments.
What Are TMJ Treatments For?
Clicking and popping of the jaw and feelings of tightness when opening wide can be annoying or downright painful. These symptoms are commonly associated with a disorder of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can also lead to chronic headaches or frequent earaches. It is important to tell your dentist or hygienist if you suffer from these symptoms, which can be addressed and often eliminated with specific measures including lifestyle modifications and use of a custom occlusal guard appliance.
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to answer your questions
Take a look through our most frequently asked questions to alleviate any confusion you may have about TMJ treatments at Carter | Callaway.
What is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the interface between the top of the jawbone and the skull and allows opening and all other normal movements of the jaw. As you might guess, it is a very important joint that allows us to speak and chew.
What are symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Clicking/popping sounds when opening or closing the jaw
- Chronic headaches / migraine headaches
- Discomfort while chewing
- Chronic pain in the area of the ear
What causes TMJ disorder?
Chronic tightness in the muscles used in jaw movements may lead to temporary displacement or erosion of the cartilaginous disk normally positioned between the jaw and skull. When this occurs, a click or pop may be heard with varying degrees of discomfort. Clenching/grinding habits and stress are commonly associated with TMJ.
What are common treatments for TMJ disorder?
- Lifestyle modifications – conservative measures for mild symptoms of TMJ disorder can be helpful. This would include
temporarily avoiding tough or chewy foods and maximal opening of the jaw. - Trigger point treatment / massage therapy – frictional trigger point massage of the masseter muscles that open and close the
jaw are useful to restore soft tissue suppleness and alleviate pain. - Over-the-counter Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory (NSAID) medications such as ibuprofen as directed.
- Nightly wear of a custom occlusal appliance – Occlusal guards made of rigid acrylic which fit the arch of teeth precisely work to
redistribute nighttime grinding forces evenly, protect the teeth, and alleviate jaw pain.
Transform your smile
Whether you need a routine check-up, cosmetic enhancement, or specialized treatment, we’re here to provide personalized care that exceeds your expectations.