The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. If this joint becomes stressed, injured or misaligned it can cause significant pain and discomfort and may affect your ability to eat, speak, yawn or perform other daily function. Our oral surgeons offer TMJ treatments to resolve this issue and restore your oral health, function and quality of life.
TMJ disorders may occur for any number of reasons. Common problems that cause or contribute to TMJ disorders include stress, bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), arthritis, and trauma or injury to the head, neck or jaw. Some signs of TMJ include:
- Grinding, clicking and popping sounds in the jaw when opening and closing your mouth
- An inability to open your mouth wide
- A locked or stuck jaw
- Pain or discomfort when chewing and biting
- Recurring pain and tension in the neck, shoulders or ears
- Frequent headaches and migraines
When you visit Pacific Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we will perform a full evaluation of your mouth and jaw to determine the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder. We will then be able to determine which type of treatment will best meet your needs. In some cases, relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes, restorative treatments or a custom-made oral appliance may be enough to bring your TMJ disorder under control and relieve your discomfort. If you have a particularly severe case, correct jaw surgery may be needed to realign your jaws and ensure that they fit together and function correctly.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cho, Dr. Hammoudeh, Dr. Odono, Dr. Tung or Dr. Urata and learn more about TMJ treatment in Glendale, Arcadia, Mission Hills, Newhall and Pasadena, California, please contact our office today.