What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint in front of your ears that connects your jaw to your skull. This joint is responsible for allowing the jaw to move and function and is the most used joint in the human body. TMJ problems are fairly common and are easier to diagnose and treat now more than ever before.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Symptoms for TMJ can vary from person to person, so it is important to communicate with Dr. Curtis about which symptoms you are experiencing and how much pain you are in, if any. At Upstate Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we can assess and treat your TMJ disorder right in the comfort of our office.

If you experience any one or more of the following, you may have TMJ problems:

Clicking or popping in the joint when opening or closing your mouth
Grinding or clenching your teeth
Sore jaw muscles when waking up
Difficulty opening your mouth fully
Frequent head or neck aches
Pain in the TMJ area
Jaw locking
Pain that increases during stress
Teeth that no longer touch when you bite

Please contact our office today to set up a consultation with Dr. Curtis so that he can fully assess your condition and provide you with the care that you deserve.

TMJ Treatment

There are a number of different treatment options that Dr. Curtis may deem fit for your TMJ disorder. After evaluating the joint and other areas of your face and jaw, he will likely implement any of the following treatment plans:

Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory agents, or muscle relaxants to relieve muscle spasming and joint pain
Steroids injected directly into the joint to relieve inflammation and reduce pain
Educating you about self-care, such as resting your jaw, keeping your teeth apart when you’re not eating or swallowing, and practicing good posture
Custom appliances, like night guards, to relieve pressure on areas of your jaw and prevent clenching or grinding
In severe TMJ cases, arthroscopy and open joint repair if the jaw cannot open or is dislocated and non-reducible

No matter what symptoms you are experiencing, Dr. Curtis is highly trained and capable of helping you achieve comfort and expert-level treatment. Please call to request a consultation if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or if you have questions about treating your TMJ.