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Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

The temporomandibular joint is the joint connecting the jaw (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). The two bones
are held together and function via a complex group of muscles, ligaments, other soft tissue and teeth. In fact, the temporomandibular joints are considered the most complex in the human body because they must provide for rotational movements, sliding movements and an infinite range of combined movements and function, unlike any other joint in the body. When the harmony of the teeth, the facial muscles, and the temporomandibular joints no longer exists - symptoms of TMJ/TMD arise.

Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), also referred to as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), is a chronic illness that affects 75 million people at any one time.

You may be a candidate for neuromuscular dentistry if you experience any of the following symptoms on a regular basis:

• Headaches or migraines
• Unexplained loose teeth
• Worn, chipped or cracked teeth
• Cracking, chipping or breaking dental restorations
• Pain or soreness around the jaw joints
• Pain in teeth that seems to move around
• Neck, shoulder or back pain
• Facial pain
• Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
• Limited movement or locking jaw
• Numbness in your fingers and arms
• Congestion or stuffiness of the ears

A thorough dental examination is the first step toward finding a solution. Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include reshaping teeth, bite guards, and muscle relaxants.