What do TMJ Specialists Do?

Ali Sedighian • December 5, 2022

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint . This is the joint that allows the jaw to open and shut. Without a properly-functioning TMJ, eating food, talking, and other basic daily activities can become challenging.

TMD

Pain, discomfort, or dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint are commonly referred to as TMD , or temporomandibular disorder . TMD can result from any of a number of causes , including stress to the jaw, injury, and teeth grinding. TMD can be painful and can cause problems with chewing and other jaw functions.

If you or a loved one is experiencing TMD, or if you suspect that you may have a problem with your temporomandibular joint, you might consider visiting a TMJ specialist. This is a professional who is trained to diagnose and treat TMJ-related problems.

What might a TMJ specialist do?

A good TMJ specialist will thoroughly evaluate your case in order to better understand the nature of your particular condition. They will investigate the cause of your pain or discomfort, and they will offer suggestions for short-term relief. Through evaluation, a TMJ specialist can also work with you to create a long-term treatment plan, if needed.

Your TMJ specialist might complete any of the following steps as part of an examination of your jaw:

Checking the jaw for inflammation
Listening for grating or popping sounds coming from the temporomandibular joint
Checking for discomfort or pain

A TMJ specialist can diagnose TMD and help you to move forward with the treatment plan that is right for you. Depending upon the nature of your condition, your TMJ specialist might suggest any of the following solutions for relief from TMD symptoms:

Behavioral changes (such as avoiding wide yawns, eating softer foods, and being mindful about jaw clenching)
Medications (such as anti-anxiety medication or a muscle relaxer to reduce muscle tension in the jaw)
A night guard, or jaw splint, to protect your temporomandibular joint from excessive jaw clenching and grinding at night

Your TMJ specialist will follow up to check that these solutions are effective in treating your discomfort. Sometimes, further treatment may be needed to achieve relief from TMD symptoms. In such cases, your TMJ specialist might recommend any of the following treatments:

Alignment of the teeth
Ultrasound therapy, radio-wave therapy, or other types of therapy for pain relief
Surgery, in some cases

Speaking with a TMJ specialist will help you to understand your options and make the best choices to improve your condition.

Ellicott City Dentistry

You may find yourself wondering, who is the best TMJ specialist near me? If you live in Ellicott City, or in the wider Baltimore area, then you might consider Ellicott City Dentistry for your TMJ treatment needs. We are dedicated and caring professionals whose primary goal is to provide our patients with the highest quality care possible in a comfortable environment.

Our knowledgeable team at Ellicott City Dentistry would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have about TMD or any of your TMJ concerns. Please feel free to contact us at any time. Our office can be reached at 410-465-3021.

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