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201 NW 82nd Ave, Suite 404 Plantation, FL 33324

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ)

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, or more commonly shortened to TMJ, is a type of medical condition where the joint that connects your jaw to the bones in the skull stop working properly. Patients with TMJ often experience pain in their jaw and may have difficulties when chewing, talking, or yawning. The good news is TMJ is highly treatable.

Causes of TMJ

TMJ often occurs through no fault of your own. If you experienced a head or neck injury, then you’re at an increased risk of developing TMJ. Other potential causes of TMJ include the following:

  • Arthritis. If you are diagnosed with arthritis, the cartilage in the temporomandibular joint may become damaged over time.
  • Teeth grinding. Excessive teeth grinding or clenching your teeth together puts pressure on the joint and could eventually lead to TMJ.
  • Gum chewing. Constantly chewing gum may up your risk factor for TMJ.
  • Female hormones. Women are more likely to have TMJ than men. Researchers are currently exploring the link between female hormones and TMJ risk.

TMJ Treatment Options

TMJ symptoms include pain and tenderness around your jaw, facial discomfort, neck stiffness, locking of the jaw, and difficulty chewing. If you are having any of these symptoms, you’ll want to explore your treatment options.

  • Pain relievers. Over the counter and prescription pain relievers reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by TMJ.
  • Bite guards. Bite guards stop teeth clenching and grinding that could be attributing to your TMJ.
  • Physical therapy. PT sessions can improve range of motion and provide advice on jaw strengthening exercises to perform.
  • Surgery. Surgical injections like Botox can be used as a form of pain relief. If there’s a structural problem with the temporomandibular joint, surgery may be required.
  • Self care. TMJ patients can find relief from applying ice for any swelling, chewing soft foods, and using only gentle jaw movements.

How We Can Help

Finding TMJ treatment in Plantation FL doesn’t have to cause you any undue stress. Dr Camysha Wright, M.D. is a board-certified ENT specialist who is well versed in diagnosing and successfully treating cases of TMJ. If you need a TMJ doctor in Plantation FL, give her office a call today at 954-368-8519 to set up a consultation.