Specializing in TMJ in Denver

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DYSFUNCTION Treatment

The temporomandibular joint (the TMJ or jaw joint) is the junction between the lower jaw (the mandible) and the temporal bone (the side of the head).  It is a complex joint that allows you to talk and chew.  It moves in opening, closing, side to side and circular patterns.  In the joint is a disc that in normal situations rests between the two bones and moves together with them.  Often people will say they “have TMJ” but we all have two of them.  The proper term for problems in this area is TMJ dysfunction.

Problems related to these joints can cause pain in the facial area as well as the neck, especially the upper neck and base of the skull, headaches, earaches and difficulty swallowing. They are aggravated by clenching and grinding. Because the upper part of the joint is part of the skull, any changes, muscle tightness or joint restrictions in the upper cervical spine can be related to problems in the TMJ.  Many patients have received treatment for the neck or been given medication for headaches but received no treatment for the TMJ's. Conversely, patients may see a dentist for the problem and receive an appliance but no treatment for the neck and headaches.  This problem is best treated by addressing both areas simultaneously with muscle and joint treatment as well as exercises often in conjunction with a dental appliance.

If you have pain in these areas, joint noise, difficulty with movement or chewing and have not achieved relief with other treatment, you may want to consider an evaluation for TMJ dysfunction.