TMJ Therapy
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint and TMD stands for Temporomandibular Disorder. TMJ and TMD are both often used to describe the conditions affecting the muscles, nerves and joints of the jaw.
Jaw Pain Is Not Normal.
If jaw pain is part of your everyday life, it may seem normal to you. The truth is, jaw pain is far from normal and may be a symptom of a condition called TMD from one or both of your TMJs. Those are the joints of your lower jaw, called TemporoMandibular Joints. When disease or misalignment occurs, the TMJ and surrounding area becomes inflamed — which is what causes pain and other symptoms.
What are the signs of TMJ disorder (TMD)?
- Headaches
- Earaches, tenderness around the ear
- Face or jaw pain and tenderness
- Muscle pain in your neck, shoulders and upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grinding jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning or opening your mouth
How Do We Diagnose And Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
Treatment of TMD begins with a comprehensive clinical examination, to check your face, jaw, bite, joints, and teeth. During your appointment, we will check for pain and tenderness and listen for clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth, swallow, or chew. If the disorder is diagnosed, an orthotic guard is often recommended as the initial treatment, in addition to laser therapy to address the acute pain.
Treatment and Relief
Our treatment can include a custom-made mouthpiece (s), designed to fit over your teeth. These type of devices prevent the grinding and clenching that often causes or worsens TMD. Just like a cast for a broken leg we take the pressure off the joint to allow it to heal. Dr. Brittany also uses other modalities such as laser to help with the pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Alternative Treatment Options
If a misaligned bite or missing teeth are the cause of your symptoms, we may recommend orthodontics or restorative dental work. If your bite is placing undue pressure on the joints we may suggest other options to redistribute the bite force evenly.
Dr. Brittany also tests each TMJ patient for sleep issues. TMJ pain and sleep issues often go hand in hand. If a sleep disorder is found, pain is addressed first, and the TMJ is stabilized during treatment for both issues
Contact Us Today to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
TMD is caused by a combination of factors like jaw injuries and joint disease, such as arthritis, and underdeveloped jaws and airway. It’s believed that bruxism (tooth clenching or grinding) and head or neck muscle tension may make TMD symptoms worse. Stress is also a possible factor. However, it is not clear if stress causes TMD or is a result. As you can see, there are an array of different causes which makes TMD hard to diagnose. The best way to understand your jaw pain symptoms are to book an appointment.
There are many possible causes of headaches. No doctor will be able to determine the cause of your headache without a physical examination.
Most often, TMJ pain can be treated effectively with non-invasive treatments and therapies. In very rare circumstances, TMD may require surgery. Your health and happiness are both important to us. We will always present you with all of your options, work through the safest and easiest options first, and give you the final decision on what happens next.
Patient Testimonials
Rachel Loeffler
Dr. Johansen is such a personable and caring doctor. Every time I interact with her, I feel that she genuinely has my best interest at heart. I highly recommend her.
Chelsea Messick Chen
We love Alpine Airway Wellness! Doctor Johansen is an expert in her field and has improved my 3 kids' overbites, teeth alignment, and correct breathing positions! Treating them young and avoiding braces is the way to go! I wish I had this opportunity as a kid. Her office creates a fun atmosphere that all my kids love!
Sarah
Dr. Johansen is incredibly knowledgeable and cares so deeply about airway health! She makes Myobrace so fun for children! I recommend her to everyone I know!
