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TMJ-TMD

Diagnosing and alleviating pain.

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are some of the most complex joints in the body. Located where your lower jaw meets your skull, they are responsible for chewing, speaking and swallowing, and also control the lower jaw as it moves forward, backward and side to side. Any problem affecting the TMJ and their associated muscles, ligaments, discs and bones may produce a painful TMJ disorder.

Just about anyone can experience occasional TMJ, according to the American Dental Association. But for 15% of Americans, the problem is chronic, producing the following symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Jaw tenderness
  • Clicking/popping noises

There are many possible causes, including:

  • Arthritis
  •  Dislocation
  •  Injury
  •  Tooth and jaw alignment
  •  Stress and teeth grinding

Just about anyone can experience occasional TMJ, according to the American Dental Association. But for 15 percent of Americans, the problem is chronic, producing the following symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Jaw tenderness
  • Clicking/popping noises

There are many possible causes, including:

  • Arthritis
  •  Dislocation
  •  Injury
  •  Tooth and jaw alignment
  •  Stress and teeth grinding

Dr. Mantel can correctly diagnose TMJ pain, and recommend a treatment plan. It may include changing your diet to softer foods, applying heat packs, practicing relaxation techniques, strengthening jaw muscles with exercise, or using a night guard to minimize grinding or clenching of teeth. If an uneven bite or tooth misalignment is the cause, Dr. Mantel may recommend orthodontic treatment to alleviate the pain.