Chatham TMJ

If you’re suffering from chronic jaw pain, trouble chewing, and frequent headaches you may be suffering from TMJ disorder (or “TMJ”), an inflammation of the joint between your jaw and your skull. We provide diagnosis and treatment for TMJ at Grand West Dental Group.

How it’s Caused

TMJ is caused by a number of factors. The main causes are clenching or grinding your teeth, chewing gum, malocclusion or bite issues, or arthritis. Symptoms include pain and tenderness in the area, headaches, difficulty chewing and swallowing and a “popping” or “clicking” sensation when you open your mouth.

How it’s Diagnosed and Treated

We diagnose TMJ by examining your mouth and jaws, taking X-rays of the lower jaw and skull, and by assessing your overall health.

Treatments for TMJ depend on the severity of the inflammation. Mild cases can be treated with stretching, changing habits and anti-inflammatory medication. More serious cases may require orthodontic treatment for bite and alignment issues, massage and physiotherapy. In some cases, surgical correction may be required.

Some treatments are available in our office, and we may also refer you to a local health care professional in Chatham for specialized care.

If you’re suffering from the symptoms of TMJ, contact us to set up an examination.