The 411 on TMJ

TMJ dentist Fishers

Do you have unexplained pain or clicking sounds in your jaw? They can be the result of a serious jaw condition.

Some problems with the jaw and the muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). But it’s also frequently called TMJ, because that’s the acronym for the name of the joint. Technically, that’s not correct.

“Temp-or-o-man-di-what?!

Let’s discuss what this means. The word temporomandibular (pronounced ‘temp-ur-o-man-di-bye-ler) is defined as ‘of, relating to, being, or affecting the joint that connects the temporal bone and the mandible.’

(We are not betting people, but if we were, we would bet that you did not foresee an anatomy lesson from your dentist.) The temporal bones are found at the sides and base of your skull, and consist of five parts, the squama, the petrous, mastoid, tympanic parts, and styloid process. The mandible is the lower jaw, and, anatomically speaking, holds your whole face together.

What are the signs of TMD?

If you have jaw problems, either due to a crash, arthritis, misalignment of teeth or jaw, teeth grinding and clenching, poor posture, or chewing gum, you may experience:

  • tooth grinding or clicking
  • jaw pain
  • earaches
  • popping sounds in your ears
  • headaches
  • stiff or sore jaw muscles
  • locking of the jaw joint
  • pain in the temple area

Quite often, TMJ symptoms will go away on their own. Some people who suffer from TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress.

TMD is an often misdiagnosed condition because facial pain can result from a variety of dilemmas, not just damage to the temporomandibular joints. Sinus infections, cavities, and facial injuries can cause jaw pain. A correct diagnosis is the first step in treating TMD.

If your TMD symptoms don’t go away on their own, seek professional help. Chronic TMD can be debilitating and your dentist can help. Dentists that treat TMD carefully coordinate with a network of specialists including ENT specialists, neurologists, and physical therapists. Talk to a healthcare professional.

Contact Pence Family Dentistry:

317-842-2337

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

9744 Lantern Rd
Fishers, Indiana
46037

ArticleID 8334
Pence Family Dentistry members of Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
Voted best dentist in Indiana 2022 by Expertise
Pence Family Dentistry in Indianapolis is an American Dental Association member
International
Indiana Dental Association membership badge
Contact Us

    317-842-2337
    9744 Lantern Rd Fishers, IN 46037
    We are happy to welcome Dr. Richard Weber, DDS, and his patients to our practice!
    This is default text for notification bar

    TEXT OUR OFFICE

    Text message is limited to 160 characters.

    HOW IT WORKS

    1. Enter your Name.
    2. Enter your Cell Phone Number, area code first
    3. Enter your text message in the box.
    4. Click "Send Text"
    5. A copy of this text will be sent to the office and to your cell phone. The office's reply will also be sent to your cell phone where you can continue the text conversation.
    Note: Mobile message and data rates from your cell phone carrier may apply.Close ClickToCall Button
    NagiosCheckValue - Do not remove please