TMJ Dysfunction
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Your chronic headaches could be caused by a dental issue known as TMJ Dysfunction
The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is located just in front of the ears, and when there is dysfunction in this joint, it can cause many issues. TMJ dysfunction is a collection of problems related to your jaw joint and jaw muscles. Symptoms such as pain or a “clicking” sound upon opening or closing the jaw are now more easily diagnosed and treated.
Since everyone’s condition is different, our surgeons will assess your condition and discuss with you the best course of treatment to achieve optimal results for you.
The symptoms of TMJ dysfunction…
TMJ disorders develop for many reasons, and can cause a multitude of issues. If you experience one or more of the following, you may be suffering from TMJ dysfunction:
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Waking up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws
- Frequent headaches or neck aches
- Pain when chewing
- Popping, grating, catching, clicking or locking of your jaw
- Pain when opening your mouth
- Misaligned teeth that no longer touch when biting
- Sensitive, loose, broken or worn teeth
Treatment options available…
Treatment is related to the degree of symptoms you experience. At times, arthritic changes may also be present in your jaw joints which can be examined with CT. Examination of the discs may require MRI investigation.
Treatment options include construction of a bite splint, jaw rest, botox injections into your jaw muscles for clenching and grinding, arthrocentesis (washing out the joint), arthroscopy ( inspecting and treating intra-articular joint pathology through a small telescope), open joint surgery and, if necessary, total joint replacement.