When it comes to your jaw, some things can go wrong that may necessitate medical intervention. Specifically, if you have temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), which is one of the most common pain disorders our oral surgeons see. This disorder affects millions of Americans, most often women, although anyone can have TMJ symptoms. You might have TMJ if you find yourself... read more »

Do you suffer from jaw pain? Do you often hear clicking or popping noises when you move your jaw? These are symptoms of temporomandibular joint disease (TMD/TMJ disorder) that can cause parts of the jaw to malfunction. It can happen from misalignment of the jaw (malocclusion), a structural jaw deformity, or a straining of the muscles or tendons controlling movement... read more »

Body aches and pains can often show up and then go just as easily. f you have been exhibiting chronic jaw pain, you may have something more serious going on. Unusual jaw pain combined with headaches is a sign of TMJ/TMD, a dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint which connects your jaw to your skull. Located under your ears, this joint... read more »

With school out early for the year, now may be a good time for your child to be evaluated for braces. Braces are often recommended to improve one’s smile (or orofacial appearance) by correcting crooked or crowded teeth. Braces can also fix problems with the bite, including overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints. When Your... read more »

If you find yourself experiencing tenderness around your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects your jaw to your skull, you join the ranks of millions of your fellow Americans. TMJ disorders can bring with them facial pain and problems moving the joint. These disorders can arise from trauma to the jaw, erosion of the joints, arthritis, or constant grinding and clenching... read more »

If you find yourself with ongoing jaw pain you’re already familiar with how uncomfortable it can be. Jaw pain has a variety of causes, including an abscessed tooth, gum infection or biting down on hard candy or ice. Another common culprit is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. TMJ can crop up in the temporomandibular joint (the joint that connects your jaw... read more »

One of the more modern, non-surgical treatments used for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders is BOTOX® injections. They are often used when other treatments have not worked or when you don’t want an invasive treatment such as jaw surgery. Typical TMJ treatments may include taking pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants. Oral splints and mouth guards, acupuncture, and physical and relaxation... read more »

Did you know that sleep apnea can be related to Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder, particularly if you have been suffering from symptoms such as chronic headaches? TMJ affects your jaw joints where the lower jaw connects to the upper jaw and can leave you with jaw pain along with pain in the head, neck and shoulder areas. OSA and TMJ... read more »

Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a surgical procedure that fixes abnormalities in the jawbones by realigning them correctly and enabling the teeth to function properly. This surgery involves aligning the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin to improve their form and function with the help of wires, screws or plates that stabilize the jaw. This jaw straightening surgery... read more »

November is National TMJ Month, a time when we create awareness around this common oral health issue and offer solutions. If you find yourself constantly feeling pain and tenderness in your jaw muscles, hear clicking and popping noises when you move your jaw joints, or have a hard time opening and closing your jaw, you may have joined the ranks... read more »