TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment in Newtown, PA

What the TMJ Actually Is

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, and it is a hinge that joins your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This joint is made up of bone, disc, synovial cavity, ligaments, and muscles that allow you to move your jaw side to side and up and down. It facilitates chewing, talking, and yawning. In some cases, there can be a problem with this joint — and that is referred to as a Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD.

Common Causes

The primary cause of TMJ disorder is problems with the jaw muscles or the jaw joint itself. Injuries to the jaw, neck, and head can lead to TMJ Disorder. Common causes include whiplash, clenching or grinding of teeth, arthritis, and stress that causes clenching and tightening of facial muscles and the jaw. Notably, 77% of people who clench their teeth at night have Sleep Apnea or Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome — which is why we often look at airway alongside TMJ.

Symptoms to Watch For

TMJ disorder can be quite painful and cause a large amount of discomfort. Common symptoms include difficulty opening the mouth, jaws that get stuck open or closed, a clicking or popping sound while moving the mouth or chewing, or tenderness and pain in the face, neck, jaw, and around the ear. Other symptoms include headaches, toothaches, dizziness, ringing in the ear, and upper shoulder pain.

How We Treat TMJ Disorder

It is essential to seek assistance from a dental expert to treat TMJ disorder. Cases can be simple to complex, and may involve other integrative healthcare recommendations. Here is how we can help:

• Over-the-counter solutions — we may recommend a way to soothe dental swelling and pain when present, plus ways to relax muscles and avoid clenching or grinding
• Nightguard or splint — one of the most recommended TMJ treatments, a plastic mouthpiece that prevents your upper and lower teeth from touching, minimizing the effect of grinding or clenching
• Orthotic appliances — a variety of orthotic appliances for TMJ therapy that help with bruxism, headaches, migraines, breathing, and tongue-related concerns
• Dental work — when teeth are missing, shifting can occur and set off an imbalance. Replacing missing teeth can balance the biting surface and correct bite problems. Dental surgery is recommended only in severe cases

Why TMJ and Airway Often Travel Together

Many TMJ patients also have airway issues, and many airway patients also have TMJ symptoms. The connection: when the airway is restricted, the body unconsciously postures the jaw to keep breathing open. Over time, that causes muscle tension, joint strain, and pain. Treating the TMJ without addressing the airway often gives only partial relief. That's why we evaluate both.