Our Services / TMJ Treatment

What is TMJ treatment?

TMJ is a group of conditions that affect the joints connecting your lower jawbone to your skull. You have one on each side of your head in front of your ear. These hinge-like joints facilitate jaw movement. They allow you to shift your jaw up and down and from side to side.

Any damage or deterioration to the joints or the muscles and tissues that support them can cause chronic pain and dysfunction. Without functional temporomandibular joints, chewing, speaking, and even resting your jaw can be uncomfortable.

TMJ treatment aims to preserve your temporomandibular joints, improve their function, and relieve pain. Dr. James M. Maragos, D.D.S. and the team provide comprehensive care for these debilitating conditions to restore your quality of life.

Who should consider TMJ treatment?

There are several types of TMJ that require ongoing treatment:

Myofascial pain

Myofascial pain affects the muscles and fascia (supportive tissue) that allow jaw movement. It’s the most common type of TMJ and often affects the muscles in the head, neck, and shoulders.

Degenerative joint disease 

Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, cause the temporomandibular joint to break down over time.

Internal joint derangement 

Internal joint derangement is a serious condition that causes the cartilage that cushions the joints to dislodge. Over time, the jawbone can dislocate and shift out of alignment.

When is TMJ treatment needed?

Some signs and symptoms you need TMJ treatment include:

• Jaw pain or soreness
• Pain when chewing
• Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
• Locked jaw
• Tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
• Neck or shoulder tension
• Headaches
• Soreness in or around your ears
• Dizziness
• Facial tenderness

Many conditions, such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and misaligned teeth, can cause TMJ and may lead to additional symptoms. The team works with you to properly diagnose and treat your condition.

Are there different types of TMJ treatment?

Dr. James M. Maragos, D.D.S. and the team offer many TMJ treatments, but the two most popular are:

Nightguards

A nightguard is a custom-made oral appliance that provides a barrier between your teeth and shifts your jaw into a comfortable position.

Orthodontics

If you have a misaligned bite that causes TMJ, the team offers Invisalign® clear aligners to pull your teeth into better alignment. 

Call Dr. James M. Maragos, D.D.S. or schedule an appointment online to find relief from TMJ pain today.