TMJ (Jaw Joint) Treatment in Canton

The TMJ (temporomandibular joint or jaw joint) is one of the hardest-working joints in your body. It is composed of two hinge joints where your lower jaw (mandible) meets your “temporal” skull bone immediately in front of the ear on each side of your head.

What is TMJ disorder, or TMD?

TMJ disorder (or TMD for Temporomandibular Disorder) is caused by a variety of factors. A common problem is Bruxism – the habitual clenching and grinding of teeth, which can be quite severe when sleeping. Another factor is neck strain because of bad posture. TMD can even be affected by one’s diet.

The TMJ muscles are connected to head and neck muscles and these can develop problems such as headaches, jaw pain and more.

Dr. Goch provides several different solutions for TMJ disorder.

Some symptoms of TMJ problems

Dr. Goch conducts a thorough exam to determine the cause of your TMJ pain.

Typical symptoms of a TMJ in trouble are:

• Headaches
• Toothaches
• Neck aches
• Earaches
• Upper shoulder pain
• Ringing in the ears
• Facial pain or tenderness around the jaw joint area
• Difficulty opening the mouth very wide
• Jaws that get “locked”
• Clicking, grating or popping sounds when opening and closing the mouth
• Difficulty chewing

Treatment for TMJ problems

Dr. Goch will explain your treatment options for treating TMJ.

There are several ways to treat TMJ problems, depending on the severity of the case and the source of the problem.

The first step is always a proper diagnosis. A panoramic X-ray is taken to see if there is any damage to the joint or disc. Dr. Goch also does a manual exam where he manipulates the muscles and feels the jaw joint to see what is going on. Once a diagnosis is made, he will go over your treatment options.

Treatments include the use of:

• Bite guards
• Stints – small custom made device that you wear over your front teeth at night
• Balancing the teeth so that the bite is restored
• Muscle relaxers
• Surgery for extreme bite problems – Dr. Goch works with his surgeon for this.