TMJ

One of the most common jaw disorders is related to a problem with the temporomandibular joint. This joint is actually the hinge that connects the jaw to the head. The relationship of the jaw to the head is dictated by three things: the jaw joint, the muscles that open and close the jaw and support the head, and the teeth themselves. All three have to work in harmony or TMJ dysfunction may exist.

Terms such as TMD (temporamandibular disorder) and CMCD (cranio-mandibular cervical disorder) are the appropriate terms for the problems patients may have. TMD and CMCD along with related cervical spine posture abnormalities can cause migraine type headaches, ear and eye problems, sinus pain, dizziness, swallowing difficulties, clicking jaw joints, clenching and grinding of your teeth, facial pain, toothaches, nausea and fatigue.

Occlusion, much like the fit of a shoe, is how your teeth fit together. When your teeth do not fit together right, your muscles go into spasm, producing too much lactic acid causing cramps and pain. Occlusion misalignment stimulates muscular hyperactivity that results in TMD and/or Craniofacial pain.

In our office, Dr. Edgar uses the most advanced diagnostic tools available to narrow down the cause of your TMD or Craniofacial pain and determine the best treatment to eliminate the problem.

A detailed medical and dental history will be documented, including all past medical and/or dental problems and treatments, any history of trauma (especially to head or neck region), specific questions about your symptoms, and the nature and duration of pain and jaw problems. A Range of Motion test will be done to check to movement of the jaw and whether there is a deviation or deflection of the jaw upon opening. Muscle palpation will also be done. This checks for possible muscle contractions and trigger points that could indicate a problem with the chewing muscles.