In your jaw there are temporomandibular joints that hinge the jaw. These ball and socket joints operate through muscles and ligaments which let you open your mouth, eat your food, talk, and create facial expressions. Cushioned by a small cartilage disk, the ball and socket allow slip in the joint so you can chew and grind the food you eat. For those who grind their teeth while sleeping, the tension caused can put a great deal of pressure on these disks, leading to arthritis, abnormal muscle tension, and pain.
Early symptoms of TMJ disorder may include the following:
- Pain when opening your mouth.
- Pain when biting down hard.
- Soreness in the jaw early in the morning.
- A persistent dull ache near the ears or temple.
We often treat TMJ with oral orthotics, or splints. We also offer the following TMJ therapy solutions:
- Therapeutic injections
- “Unlocking” procedures
- Prolo-therapy
- Trigger point injections
- Moist heat application
- TENS therapy
- Ultrasound
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medication
Do you have questions or concerns about TMJ disorder? If so, please call our team at 303.421.2696 to schedule your appointment with Dr. James Bieneman. At Craniofacial Pain Center Of Colorado in Arvada, Colorado, our goal is to provide early diagnosis and effective treatment so that you can resume your daily living as pain-free as possible. Call us today and find the relief you deserve!
