TMJ- TemporomandibularJoint Dysfunction
The TMJ is the jaw joint, which is involved with the hinge opening and closing of your jaw.  Pain, clicking and popping are very common problems that people experience.  Sometimes the disc (cartilage) located in the joint, becomes dislocated, and then suddenly slides and pops, when you open or close your jaw.  At times the joint is inflamed and swollen.  When their is deterioration of the joint tissue, or the joint becomes damaged you can experience pain.  

Treatment
 
    In most cases, simply resting the jaw, chewing soft foods, avoidance of wide opening of the jaw, and over the counter pain relievers is enough to stop the cycle of pain.  Cold compresses are helpful in reducing swelling.  When pain is not alleviated from these conservative measures, or there is a history of grinding or clenching during sleep, an orthotic device, or a nightguard can be custom fabricated to reposition the joint and protect it from further damage.  Surgery is a possibility if relief is not found, but should only be considered if all other measures have been exhausted.


 Migraines
Migraine pain can be triggered by problems with your bite, as well as tension in the muscles of the face and temples. Your bite or occlusion is an important factor in the consideration of possible sources of facial pain. In neuromuscular dentistry, a tens unit can determine if you have muscles that are abnormally triggering pain, and your jaw position can be changed to eliminate this pain. Once pain is relieved with an orthotic device, your bite can be re-established at this new position with restorative dentistry, crowns, or orthodontics. 
  
             
                                       Our goal is to keep you healthy for a lifetime! 
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                                       Angela Hilton-Foley, DMD
                                              Designing Smiles
                          813.891.1212