What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the connection between the jawbone and the skull. TMJD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) also refers to a complex set of problems, usually including pain, associated with the muscles and bones of this joint.

The most frequent complaints from TMJ patients include:

• Headaches
• Chronic facial pain
• Neck and back pain
• Unexplained toothaches
• Unexplained earaches

Other common symptoms are:

• Dizziness
• Ringing and stuffiness in the ears
• Pressure in front of the ears
• Clicking, popping, or grinding noises in the jaw joints
• Jaw joint locking or stiffness
• Inability to open or close the mouth fully
• Pain coming from behind or above the eyes
• Pain while chewing or speaking
• Tight or sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing

Causes of TMJD

• The symptoms of TMJD usually appear gradually with no apparent specific cause.
• They can also occur after an obvious trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or a trauma.
• Subtle repeated traumas, like clenching the teeth or excessive gum chewing, nail biting can contribute.
• Cradling a phone between your shoulder and the side of your head can cause TMJ.
• TMJ can also be caused by a bad bite, crooked teeth or dental malocclusion. Old or ill-fitting dentures, which do not maintain proper vertical dimension, lead to TMJ problems.
• Systemic diseases and developmental abnormalities can also cause TMJ.
• Sleeping on one's stomach is another contributing cause in some cases.

How is it treated?
The specific treatment varies for different patients, because the teeth, muscles, bone, and jaw joints can all be involved in differing degrees in different patients. Most cases can be managed non-surgically and conservatively with a variation of a stabilization prosthesis appliance that fits snugly on the lower teeth. These appliances are fabricated of clear acrylic resin or a soft rubber. Some cases in which there is a strong muscle component may need physical therapy measures such as muscle exercise, heat and ultrasound therapy, massage and even acupuncture treatments. These can be arranged through your referring health care provider. Sometimes it will be necessary to prescribe medications to help you during the initial healing phase of treatment to manage pain and muscle tightness.

Once the symptoms are alleviated, and the joint and muscle pain managed, we can prescribe the second phase of treatment such as crown and bridge treatment, orthodontics, or various kinds of overlay bite appliances to maintain a comfortable jaw position. It is often necessary to wear nighttime appliances to help prevent pressure on the jaws while sleeping.