TMJ Therapy in Cape May Court House, NJ

Do I Have TMJ Disorder?

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, connects your jawbone to your skull and acts as a hinge to assist in the basic opening and closing movements of the jaw. When someone begins to feel pain in this area and experiences jaw popping, it’s likely a sign of TMJ disorder (TMD).

TMJ disorder occurs when there’s a complication with the joint and it’s leading to discomfort. Here at Gentle Dental, Dr. Mischissin can offer sufferers relief for their pain and provide them with personalized treatment. Learn more about your options today.

Symptoms of TMD include:

  • Pain in the face, jaw, ears, or mouth
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Toothaches
  • Tender joints
  • Chronic headaches
  • Locked jaw
  • Muscle spasms
man in white shirt in front of white background holding his face in pain

How Did I Get TMJ Disorder?

Sometimes, the reason behind your TMD can be difficult to determine. Typically, TMJ disorder can occur if:

  • The disk erodes or moves out of its proper alignment
  • The joint’s cartilage is damaged by arthritis
  • The joint is damaged by a blow or other impact

Additionally, risk factors that can lead to TMJ disorder include jaw injury, different types of arthritis, chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth, or connective tissue diseases.

Relief for Your TMJ Pain

Our team at Gentle Dental can offer a TMJ exam that evaluates the joint tissue in the hinge of the jaw. Dr. Mischissin will help identify the problem and offer you relief for your pain. Generally, she may suggest over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses for temporary relief.

For more severe cases of TMD, Dr. Mischissin will provide you with a customized mouthguard to prevent you from grinding your teeth. She might also suggest an orthodontic appliance, splint, or retainer to help alleviate discomfort and redirect the positioning of your TMJ joint.

Lastly, for the most severe cases of TMJ disorder, we may recommend surgical procedures to correct the area around your temporomandibular joint.

TMJ ice therapy

Visit Gentle Dental for TMJ Therapy Today

Receiving treatment for your TMJ disorder sooner rather than later will provide you with a wide range of benefits including no pain. Speak with Dr. Mischissin if you’re experiencing persistent discomfort in the jaw, mouth, or ears so she can find a solution for you. Get started with a consultation today.

When should I see a dentist for TMJ problems?
Should I be worried if my jaw pops when I chew?
Can TMJ disorder cause hearing loss?
Can TMJ disorder cause sinus headaches?
When should I see a dentist for TMJ problems?

If you’re suffering from severe jaw pain or have difficulty opening and closing your mouth, it’s best to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mischissin for a TMD evaluation.

Although there’s no clear distinguisher that your discomfort is due to a TMJ issue, Dr. Mischissin can examine your case and determine if she can provide you with relief.

Should I be worried if my jaw pops when I chew?

If your jaw begins popping or clicking when you eat, it might be a sign of TMJ disorder. These sounds usually occur when there’s a complication with the temporomandibular joint and relief for it might be necessary.

If you’re experiencing this, call Gentle Dental and schedule a consultation with Dr. Mischissin.

Can TMJ disorder cause hearing loss?

The TMJ is located between your jawbone and skull, which falls close to your ear. If you notice issues with the join, it can potentially impact your hearing.

Earaches and tinnitus are often a symptom of TMJ disorder, however complete hearing loss is typically unusual. It’s best to treat your TMD before these issues occur and start to worsen.

Can TMJ disorder cause sinus headaches?

If your jaw begins popping or clicking when you eat, it might be a sign of TMJ disorder. These sounds usually occur when there’s a complication with the temporomandibular joint and relief for it might be necessary.

If you’re experiencing this, call Gentle Dental and schedule a consultation with Dr. Mischissin.

Visit Susan M. Mischissin, DMD, PC

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