• TMJ Disorders • Splint Therapy • Bite Adjustment • Sleep Apnea

TMJ DISORDERS

TMJ (temperomandibular joint) disorders are a family of problems related to your complex jaw joint. It is located right in front of your ears. You can feel it with your finger tips as you open and close your jaw or move it sideways or front to back. This joint is similar to all joints and like all joints, can become damaged from trauma, developmental problems or simple wear and tear. Damage can occur to the cartilage, jaw bone or to the blood vessels and nerves that supply the area. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important. During your exam, we will examine your joint for damage using Doppler auscultation (a sophisticated microphone) and palpation (feeling). We also do range of motion tests and joint loading tests. In addition, we will check all the muscles of your head and neck for soreness or headaches. Please call us for a TMJ consultation in Wayne, NJ. We also serve the surrounding towns of Franklin Lakes, Kinnelon, Montville, Oakland and Pompton Lakes, New Jersey.

TMJ disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. Alternatively, you may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking or grating noises when you open your mouth, or trouble opening your mouth wide.

Do You Have a TMJ Disorder?

• Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
• Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
• Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
• Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
• Does stress make your clenching and pain worse?
• Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
• Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat or yawn?
• Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaws?
• Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other joints?
• Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
• Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
• Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
• Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or worn?

The more times you answered "yes," the more likely it is that you have a TMJ disorder. Understanding TMJ disorders will also help you understand how they're treated.

TMJ Treatment

There are various treatment options that Dr. Breiterman can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Dr. Breiterman will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care as well as professional care.