TMJ AND FACIAL PAIN

TMJ Disorders in Lancaster, Lititz, and Hummelstown / Harrisburg, PA

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint that undergoes both rotating and sliding movements to allow a patient to open and close the mouth. Symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) can range from mild popping/clicking to severe restriction of opening and closing the mouth. These symptoms occur when the anatomic components of the joint and the chewing muscles (muscles of mastication) are not working together correctly.

For more information click to read the AAOMS Ebook on TMJ

There are many reasons these disorders develop including but not limited to clenching/grinding your teeth, muscle inflammation, previous traumatic injury, deterioration from arthritis, and joint disc displacement. For this reason, it is important to be evaluated by one of our experienced surgeons at Conestoga Oral Surgery to help determine the cause of dysfunction and provide our patients with various forms of treatment to reduce pain and increase function. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care combined with professional care. When a patient is fully vested in their recovery, we find resolution of symptoms and dysfunction improve dramatically. The initial goals of treatment are to relieve both chronic muscle and joint inflammation. This can be accomplished with the following:



  • Resting your jaw
  • Taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen
  • Eating a soft, non-chew diet
  • Applying ice/heat
  • Practicing good posture
  • Performing routine jaw exercises

AAOMS Presentation on TMJ/Facial Pain

Stress management techniques such as biofeedback or physical therapy may also be recommended, as well as a temporary, hard plastic appliances known as a splint or nightguard. The nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night. In some cases, bite adjustment (equilibration) by your general dentist or orthodontics may be indicated. 



If conservative TMJ disorder therapies are unsuccessful, obtaining an MRI of the joint may be necessary. This imaging will allow the surgeon to evaluate the function of the joint and determine if surgical intervention is necessary. Surgical options, such as arthroscopy and open joint repair, are sometimes needed, but are only reserved for severe cases of TMD. For more information, contact our office at (717) 394-3033 to schedule your appointment today.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TMJ/FACIAL PAIN, CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEONS WEBSITE

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