TMJ

The joints and muscles where the skull attaches to the lower jaw, providing you the ability to open and close your jaw – to talk, chew, and swallow – are called temporomandibular joints, or TMJ. In Dr. Samavar’s initial dental examination he checks for signs of TMJ disorders.

SOME COMMON SYMPTOMS OF A TMJ DISORDER INCLUDE:

• Muscle tenderness
• Clicking or popping sound (some joint sound can be normal, but often it’s an indicator of TMJ trouble)
• Difficulty or pain when chewing or talking
• Difficulty opening your mouth wide
• Swelling around the joint
• A tired feeling in your jaw
• Difficulty swallowing
• Headaches (at back of the head, forehead, and sinus area)
• Ear pain or ringing
• Stiff or painful muscles in shoulders and neck
• Symptoms can occur on just one side or both sides.

SOME CAUSES OF TMJ DISORDERS:

• Whiplash
• Arthritis
• Grinding or clenching of your teeth
• Any severe or prolonged stress on the joint

Disorders in this area can be quite painful and frustrating. The good news is, if you have a TMJ issue, Dr. Samsavar has many quality treatments available.