The temporomandibular joint, commonly referred to as the TMJ, is the hinge-like joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. This joint plays a critical role in speaking, chewing and yawning. When the TMJ becomes injured, strained or misaligned, it may result in a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This disorder may develop from causes such as jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, stress or trauma to the head or neck. TMJ disorders are often painful and may disrupt your daily life.
Signs & Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
If you are experiencing frequent discomfort in your jaw, it may be a sign of a TMJ disorder. TMD may cause a wide range of symptoms that extend beyond the jaw itself. Common indicators include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint
- Difficulty chewing
- Clicking or popping noises when opening your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouths fully
- Feeling as though the jaw is “stuck” or locked in place
- Tension in the neck and shoulders
- Headaches, facial pain and earaches
Diagnosis & Personalized Treatment Options
Dr. David Peterson will perform a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose TMJ disorders. This assessment may involve reviewing your medical history, checking your bite and jaw movement, and using dental imaging to examine the joint. Once the cause of your discomfort has been identified, we can design a TMJ treatment in Sandy, Utah, that meets your specific needs.
Treatment for TMJ disorders may range from simple at-home care to more advanced solutions. Mild cases may benefit from jaw exercises, stress management techniques and avoiding hard or chewy foods. Many patients find relief with a custom night guard that reduces pressure on the joint caused by teeth grinding during sleep. In some cases, dental treatments such as adjusting the bite or replacing missing teeth may help restore proper alignment. For more complex or chronic conditions, additional therapies or surgical intervention may be necessary.
Support for Long-Term Comfort & Function
Our goal is to alleviate your discomfort and help restore normal function to your jaw. With timely diagnosis and appropriate care, most TMJ disorders can be effectively managed. We are committed to helping you find relief and improve your overall quality of life. If you suspect that you may be suffering from TMD, we encourage you to contact The Dental Studio at 801-278-4787 today to schedule an evaluation with our dentist and learn about your options for TMJ treatment in Sandy, UT. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.