What is TMJ Disorder?
When your bite, jaw muscles, and joints do not work in harmony with one another it can lead to TMD, a disorder of the temporomandibular joint. This can be caused by a traumatic injury to the jaw, or from occlusal habits, such as grinding or clenching. Any one of these problems can lead to significant pain.
What is a TMJ Dentist?
There is no recognized specialty for TMJ, so there's really no such thing as a "TMJ dentist." Most dentists who treat TMJ disorder are licensed as general dentists. Dr. Cha has been actively treating TMJ disorder for the last ten years. He uses a variety of methods to treat TMJ/TMD. The objective of treatment is usually to relieve the pain associated with the jaw joint disorder. The treatment may involve the use of orthodontic appliances or bite splints to help guide jaws to more healthy position, or the use of botulinum injections to balance to hyperactive muscles of mastication. Sometimes it is necessary to use combination therapy. Whatever treatment has been used, Dr. Cha has seen a significant success rate, as well over 90% of our TMJ disorder patients have reported relief from the pain they’ve been experiencing.
What are some Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
- Regular headaches or migraines
- Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Unexplained loose teeth
- Clicking or grinding sound in your joints
- Pain or pressure in your joints
- Limited movement of your jaw
- Ringing in your ears
- Numbness in your finger
If you suspect you are suffering from TMJ disorder, you may request an appointment with our office.