1111 University Blvd, West G-4
Silver Spring, MD 20902
301.649.5001
fax: 301.681.8132
2850 North Ridge Road,
Suite 201
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410.461.6655
fax: 410.461.6672
Do you have frequent headaches, ear aches, tender jaw muscles, or a dull, aching facial pain? Does your jaw ‘lock’, ‘stick’ or sometimes ‘go out’? Have you noticed clicking or popping noises when you open or close your mouth? These aches and pains may be related to the jaw muscles and the jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint or ‘TMJ’. The following can be used to link to the article: Two joints and several jaw muscles help to open and close your mouth. The joints and muscles work together when you talk, chew and swallow. These structures include muscles and ligaments, the jaw bone, and the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJ’s. The temporomandibular joints are among the most complex joints in the entire body. Each joint has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load when the jaw opens widely or performs rotation and gliding movements. Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in pain. Some TMJ problems result from arthritis, dislocation or injury ot the jaw, head, or neck. Often times TMJ is related to the way the teeth fit together-the bite. Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, is also considered to be a major factor in TMD. Evaluation is an important step before any treatment is initiated. Part of your clinical examination includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving. Your complete medical history may be reviewed, so it is important to keep your dental office record up-to-date. X-rays may be taken and a cast of your teeth may be made to see how your bite fits together. Dr. Lee may also request specialized x-rays specific for the temporomandibular joints. There are several ways to treat TMD. Dr. Lee will recommend the type of treatment that is needed for your particular problem. Treatment may involve a series of steps. The step-by-step plan is in your best interest because only minor, relatively non-invasive treatment may be needed. Decreasing harmful clenching or bruxing (grinding) by wearing a special NTI (Nociceptive Trieminal Inhibition Tension Suppression System) prevents the teeth from touching while you sleep. Dr. Lee may recommend fixing an uneven or improper bite by adjusting or selectively grinding some teeth. Orthodontic treatment, crown and bridgework may also be recommended to help reduce problems caused by poorly aligned teeth.