TMJ Specialist

What is TMJ?

TMJ, also known as temporomandibular disorder, is a common condition that affects your jaw joints, which are the two joints that connect your upper to your lower jaw. Mild cases of TMJ may not cause much pain. However, if you have severe TMJ, treatment can relieve debilitating discomfort. 

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

Common signs and symptoms of TMJ include:

• Aching pain near your ear
• Jaw tenderness or pain
• Pain in both jaw joints
• Facial pain
• Pain or problems when chewing
• Popping or clicking sounds in your jaw
• Locking jaw joints

When left untreated, TMJ pain may worsen over time or diminish your quality of life. See Dr. Kumar at the first sign of painful TMJ.

What are the risk factors for TMJ?

TMJ is common and can happen to anyone, but risk factors for developing it include:

• Arthritis
• Joint disc erosion 
• Disc misalignment 
• Jaw trauma or injuries
• Teeth grinding 
• Connective tissue diseases
• Jaw clenching

Sometimes the cause of TMJ isn’t known. There are a variety of ways to reduce TMJ pain, regardless of what’s causing the condition. 

How does my provider diagnose TMJ?

To find out if TMJ is the source of your discomfort, Dr. Kumar discusses your medical and oral health history. She examines your jaw and may ask you to open and close your mouth to assess jaw joint tenderness and range of motion. Dental X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans help her make a final diagnosis and develop a highly effective treatment. 

What are my treatment options for TMJ?

Common TMJ treatments that Dr. Kumar may recommend for you include:

• Ice or heat packs
• Jaw stretches or exercises
• Stress-reduction techniques 
• Night guards
• Behavior-change therapy
• Injections
• Arthrocentesis (fluid irrigation) 
• Jaw surgery

Dr. Kumar digitally scans your mouth to create a custom-fitted mouth guard you can wear at night to prevent teeth clenching and grinding. She tailors each treatment to alleviate TMJ discomfort and may recommend you try more than one solution to achieve the best results.

If needed, Dr. Kumar can refer you to a specialist if you have a severe or complex case of TMJ.

If you suspect you have TMJ and want relief, call the Aqua Dentistry office, or schedule an appointment online today.