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TMJ Disorder Treatment

TMJ Disorder Treatment

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are complications associated with the temporomandibular joint where the jaw and skull come together. This joint, although small, can cause chronic pain and symptoms that make performing everyday tasks quite painful or difficult. Because your teeth, jaw joints, head & neck muscles and head posture are all related, a problem in one area can affect the other, resulting in pain. Dr. David B. Fisher is a known expert at diagnosing the source of pain to make the appropriate recommendations to make a patient comfortable and healthy.

The symptoms of TMJ disorders are different from patient to patient, with some reporting pain that comes and goes and others describing symptoms that persist chronically for many years. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, then Dr. Madden recommends that you schedule an appointment to evaluate your TMJ disorder:

  • Pain in the Jaw, Face, Neck or Ear
  • Limited or difficulty opening your Jaw
  • Noises, Popping or Clicking when opening or closing your Jaw
Dr David Fisher TMJ Disorder Treatment
  • Headaches or Migraines
  • Locking of the Jaw
  • Pain when chewing

Did you know…

that TMJ disorders can occur at any point in life, but that they are most commonly diagnosed in young adults between the ages of 20 and 40 years old? The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons also reports that TMJ disorders are far more common among women than men. Though there is no way of knowing exactly how many people suffer from TMJ disorders (many go undiagnosed), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that approximately 10 million people in the U.S. currently suffer from TMJ conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. David B. Fisher, family Bellaire Dental, Texas can effectively diagnose a temporomandibular joint disorder. There are some signs and symptoms of a TMJ disorder that could indicate the need to visit Dr. David B. Fisher:

  • Your jaws ‘pop’ in and out of place
  • Your jaws get stuck in certain positions
  • You cannot open your mouth very wide
  • You hear grating or popping sounds when chewing your food or speaking
  • You have swelling on one or both sides of your face
  • You have pain in your face, neck or shoulders when speaking, eating or opening your mouth
  • You have chronic headaches or upper shoulder pain
  • You frequently experience dizziness
  • You have problems with your ears, such as earaches, ringing, or difficulty hearing

If you are diagnosed with a TMJ disorder, your treatment experience will vary based on your diagnosis. Dr. David B. Fisher may attempt to treat your TMJ disorder first using conservative methods. Treatments may include a combination of the following to reduce your pain or TMJ problem:

  • Thorough TMJ & muscle exam
  • Anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, sedatives, muscle relaxants, tricyclic antidepressants
  • Bite equilibration therapy
  • Oral appliance or mouth guard therapy
  • Botox
  • Physical therapy
  • Full Mouth Rehabilitation with fillings, crowns or veneers
  • Invisalign

Yes. TMJ disorders are often worsened by stress and the habits that form as a result of stress. For example, if you have a tendency to clench your jaw or grind your teeth when under stress, you may find that your TMJ symptoms worsen during those times. Your family dentist at David B. Fisher D.D.S. may recommend taking steps to reduce your stress levels, perhaps using massage or physical exercises. You may also be advised to avoid gum and taking large bites of food during meals.

TMJ disorders can be chronic and debilitating and if left untreated, additional symptoms like migraines and tinnitus can occur. Fortunately, Dr. David B. Fisher offers non-surgical, non-invasive treatment options to resolve imbalances in the TMJ. Schedule your consultation with Dr. David B. Fisher today.

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