SERVICES

San Diego TMJ Dentist: Find Relief from Jaw Pain & Headaches

Are you experiencing persistent jaw pain, headaches, or clicking in your jaw?

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can cause significant discomfort, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and even sleep. If you're searching for a San Diego TMJ dentist specializing in relieving TMJ pain, you've come to the right place. Our practice focuses on diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of TMJ disorders, which involve the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull.

Common symptoms that patients seek help for include chronic jaw pain, frequent headaches (often mistaken for tension headaches), neck and shoulder pain, jaw stiffness, clicking or popping in the jaw, and even a bite that feels "off." We offer non-surgical treatments to alleviate your TMJ symptoms and improve your quality of life right here in San Diego.

Can TMJ disorders cause headaches?

Yes, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction can cause headaches. Many people don't realize that persistent headaches may originate from a problem with their jaw joint.

  • Misdiagnosis: A study by the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine (2006) found that TMJ-related headaches are frequently mistaken for tension headaches.

  • Symptom Tracking: Carefully monitoring your symptoms can help distinguish between different types of pain and guide you toward effective relief.

SYMPTOMS

What Does TMJ Pain Feel Like

TMJ pain is often described as an intermittent, dull, aching sensation that spreads from the jaw joint and the area around it.

What Other Symptoms Can Occur with TMJ Issues (Even Without Significant Pain)?

Even if you don't experience significant jaw pain, other symptoms can indicate a TMJ disorder, including:

  • Headaches: Recurring or persistent headaches.

  • Neck and shoulder pain: Aches or stiffness in the neck and shoulder muscles.

  • Jaw Stiffness: Difficulty or discomfort when opening or closing your mouth.

  • Ear Issues: Pain in the ear, a feeling of pressure, or ringing sounds (tinnitus).

  • Clicking or popping of the jaw

  • Limited Jaw Movement: Episodes where your jaw gets stuck or "locked."

  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night.

  • Changes in Bite: A sudden or gradual sensation that your bite feels "off."

  • Dizziness: A feeling of being lightheaded or unsteady.

What are the Common Causes of TMJ Disorders (TMD)?

There are many things that can trigger TMJ, and sometimes it’s not straightforward or obvious. A few things to look out for:

  • TMJ disorders (TMD) can be triggered by various factors, and the exact cause is often multifaceted. Here are some key contributors:

  • Injury: Trauma to the jaw joint or surrounding areas, such as a blow to the face or whiplash, can lead to TMJ problems.

  • Arthritis: Different forms of arthritis, like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the temporomandibular joint, causing pain and dysfunction.

  • Stress: Psychological stress often leads to habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching, which put excessive pressure on the TMJ.

  • Orthodontics: While sometimes used to treat TMJ by correcting bite issues, in some cases, orthodontic treatments or changes in bite alignment can contribute to or exacerbate TMJ problems.

  • Missing Teeth: Gaps from missing teeth can cause an uneven bite, forcing the jaw to compensate and leading to strain on the TMJ.

What are the Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders (TMD)?

Fortunately, TMJ disorders (TMD) are treatable. The goal of treatment is not only to relieve current symptoms but also to identify the underlying cause and prevent future pain. Common non-surgical treatment options include:

  • Oral Appliance Therapy (Splints/Night Guards): Custom-fitted devices worn in the mouth to stabilize the jaw joint, correct bite issues, and reduce teeth grinding or clenching.

  • Physical Therapy: Exercises and manual techniques to improve jaw mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain in the jaw, neck, and shoulders.

  • Medications: Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription), muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and inflammation.

  • Botox® injections may be considered for severe muscle spasms.

  • Stress Management Techniques: Strategies like relaxation exercises, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy to address stress-related teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

 
 

HOW IT WORKS

TMJ / TMD Treatment Process

STEP ONE

We will conduct a thorough interview and examination to gauge the severity and symptoms associated with TMJ / TMD pain.

STEP TWO

Education is important. We provide a thorough explanation of what might be causing the pain and available treatment options.

STEP THREE

A CT scan might be required in order to get a 3D image of the jaw muscles and structure. This is completed onsite.

STEP FOUR

Our goal is to get you out of pain first. If we can accomplish this, then we will have a better understanding of the proper treatment.

GET STARTED

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