TMJ Disorders
The Temporomandibular Joint Explained
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect the jaw to the cranium. The jaw joint is one of the most complicated joints in the body, given the types of movements required to eat, speak, and make facial expressions.
A temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) refers to some form of dysfunction that affects normal movement of the jaw. TMJ disorders could involve problems with the cartilage, bone, muscles, or nerves of the face, head, and neck.
If you suffer from a jaw joint disorder, you are not alone...
Common Symptoms of TMD
Signs of a TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw pain
- Clicking or popping of the jaw joint
- Limited jaw movement
- Toothaches
- Sensitive teeth and gums
- Headaches
- Eye pain
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Neck and shoulder pain
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, be sure to speak with your dentist. Early detection and treatment of TMD helps prevent more serious jaw problems down the road.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Strain or Wear on the Jaw
Opening, closing, and clenching the jaw will lead to wear and tear over time. This can eventually affect the cartilage and bone structure of the joint.Issues with Bite Alignment
Poor alignment of the jaw and dental arches can affect the temporomandibular joint. This is largely because the joints will overcompensate to find a comfortable position in which the teeth meet, but over time, this causes considerable strain on the TMJs.Arthritis of the Jaw
The movement of the temporomandibular joint can be affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis.Trauma to the Jaw
Injuries to the temporomandibular joint or surrounding structures can lead to misalignment, damage, or dysfunction of the joint.TMD Risk Factors
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Common risk factors for developing a TMJ disorder include crooked teeth and untreated malocclusion, long-term bruxism (teeth grinding), excessive and prolonged stress, and past injuries to the jaw.
Do You Suffer from Jaw Pain or Dysfunction? Contact Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa
If you have an issue with your TMJ, Dr. Edwards can help. Using the latest technology and dental expertise, our team can identify and treat the root cause or causes of your TMD. Working with your dentist, we'll create a custom treatment plan that relieves your symptoms so you can enjoy the benefits of normal TMJ function.
We have offices conveniently located in Valrico, Wesley Chapel and Land O' Lakes, FL. We accept most dental insurance plans and can arrange payment plans. Our practice can also arrange financing through CareCredit®, LendingClub®, and Compassionate Finance™.
To learn more about treating TMJ dysfunction, contact our practice online. You can also schedule an appointment by phone.
Give Our Oral Surgeons a Call
(813) 452-6380
"I recommend them highly."
Elsie Hayes
2021
I was very impressed with staff. Everyone was nice and friendly. The office was beautiful. Nice. My dentist was wonderful and did an amazing job with her assistant.
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Julian Williams
2021
The staff was fantastic. I recommend them highly. They are not just going to do what you want. They are going to help you with what you need, and teach you something in the process. They were great.
View On GoogleDiagnosing TMJ Disorders
Advanced dental imaging has made it easier for oral and maxillofacial surgeons to examine the different structures of the temporomandibular joint and how they interact. Yet proper diagnosis of TMD requires more than just state-of-the-art equipment.
In addition to taking detailed x-rays of the temporomandibular joint, we'll also review your medical history and discuss symptoms with you. We want to know how these TMJ problems have affected your life, and what you'd like to get out of treatment.
This combination of diagnostic imaging and an honest conversation allows us to understand the nature of your TMD and develop a fully customized treatment plan.
The Goals of TMD Treatment
Treating the root cause of a TMJ issue provides lasting relief and improved oral health. Our specialized approach can identify why you started experiencing symptoms in the first place.
Jaw pain, tinnitus, and headaches can all negatively affect your quality of life. Whatever treatment plan we use, we want to ensure TMD symptoms are brought under control.
We often take normal movement of the TMJ for granted. We want to make sure our TMD patients can eat, speak, and go about their day normally, without joint dysfunction.
Learn More about Treating TMJ Disorders
If TMD symptoms affect your quality of life, it's important to visit Dr. Edwards. With offices in Valrico, Wesley Chapel and Land O' Lakes, FL, our team will examine your temporomandibular joint and determine the best treatment or combination of treatments to relieve pain and foster good oral health. For more information about TMJ procedures, contact our practice online or schedule a consultation by phone.
Call Our Oral Surgeons Today
(813) 452-6380
"Treated me with kindness and professionalism." You're Always Welcome at Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa
Sally Acuff
2021
Incredible staff and doctors and welcoming environment! Highly recommend! I was absolutely blown away by the kindness of everyone at this office.
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Shelley Morgan
2021
First time visiting the clinic, I was in pain and not in the best mood. They took care of me and treated me with kindness and professionalism. The entire team was great. Thanks for helping me feel better!
View On GoogleTeeth Grinding and TMJ Disorders Understanding the Connection
Bruxism causes damage to your teeth and gums as well as wear and tear to the TMJs as you sleep.
Teeth grinding is a contributing factor in many cases of TMD. Grinding and clenching your teeth at night places excessive strain on the temporomandibular joints as well as the muscles of the face. Common causes include:
- Poor dental alignment
- Excessive stress
- Medication side effects
- Systemic disease or disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease, sleep apnea, epilepsy)
If you suffer from jaw pain accompanied by tooth damage, tooth sensitivity, or gum recession, you may be suffering from teeth grinding.
For many patients, addressing their problems with teeth grinding can help bring TMD symptoms under control.
Braces for TMD Treating Malocclusion
Braces and other orthodontic procedures may be considered when malocclusion is a contributing factor to teeth grinding and/or TMD. By improving the alignment of the teeth, dental arches, and jaw joint, we can reduce the wear and tear on the TMJ over time. In addition, you get to experience the numerous benefits of a healthy, properly aligned smile.
Completing orthodontic treatment can take several months to a year or longer. It's important that patients have realistic expectations about wearing adult braces and how long the process takes.
During your visit, we can explain the benefits of orthodontic care, providing you with an approximate treatment timeline and answering any additional questions you may have.
Many Adults Could Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment
Additional Treatment Options
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In addition to the use of orthodontics and bite guards, our specialists can discuss additional treatment options. These include lifestyle modifications, treatments for arthritis, relaxation techniques, and non-invasive care. We can also provide surgical solutions if noninvasive treatments fail to provide relief.
"I highly recommend Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa!" Dr. Edwards Loves Making a Difference
Emilia Miranda
2021
Everyone was very nice at the office. Assistant was very knowledgeable and took her time to explain everything. Doctor was very friendly and made me feel more comfortable about the upcoming procedure. Glad I chose this office for my dental needs.
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Deborah Jennings
2021
All around great experience. They were able to get me in right away whenever other offices were scheduling a month out. All of the staff was friendly and knowledgeable and made sure I was completely comfortable! And the prices are very reasonable. I highly recommend Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa!
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