If your jaw, also known as TMJ, is having symptoms, seeing a professional at Smile Specialists can help. Your temporal mandibular joint, TMJ, is a complex joint. On each side of your face, the joint connects your upper and lower jaw. The TMJ joint acts as both a hinge and sliding joint. This unique joint action allows for the opening and closing of your mouth. Also, allowing your jaw to move side to side and forwards and back. With so much complexity, many doctors can't treat the TMJ. At Smile Specialists in Tarzana, our TMJ specialists have the expertise to help treat it.
black and white photo of womans face with red cheek showing toothache

What Can Cause TMJ Syndrome?

There's a variety of reasons why someone can develop TMJ disorders. Most common being teeth grinding (bruxism) and injury or dislocations.

A combination of factors can also come into play. Factors such as diet, posture, stress, and genetics. With this level of complexity, it's essential to see a specialist for proper diagnosis and care.

Do You Have TMJ Disorder?

Since the TMJ joint is near many muscles and nerves in the face and neck, many symptoms can arise, such as:

  • Ear and face throbbing
  • Teeth grinding at night during sleep
  • Excruciating headaches
  • Locked jaw and or popping
  • Inability to open jaw widely
  • Tinnitus, ear ringing
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizzy Spells,
  • Tightness in shoulders and traps area

How Is TMJ Treated?

Since there are many potential causes for TMJ, a variety of treatments exist as well. At Smile Specialists, we know your case is unique and always use custom treatments best suited for you.

For mild TMJ symptoms, there are conservative treatments such as:

  • OTC meds such as ibuprofen for muscle ache relief
  • hot and cold compresses
  • jaw stretches
  • relaxation techniques

For moderate to severe cases, orthodontist can use:

  • custom made mouth guards for teeth grinding
  • restorative dentistry such as implants and crowns to help jaw mechanics
  • ultrasound waves
  • laser therapy for inflammation
  • Botox
  • splints
  • orthodontics

If the above treatments still aren't resolving your issues, there are other options. Our dentists can recommend open joint repairs or bite adjustment surgery. These surgical options are more invasive but highly effective. Since they are the most intrusive, our TMJ dentists reserve them only for the most severe cases.

So if you're suffering from TMJ that isn't improving, call Smile Specialists in Tarzana. Our TMJ doctors can properly diagnose what the cause is. Proper diagnosis will, in turn, provide the best treatment plans to get relief. Our goal is to help improve your oral health and quality of life.
We look forward to helping with your TMJ needs.