Dr. Noemi Cruz-Orcutt has had advanced training in the evaluation and treatment of TMJ problems. As part of the dental evaluation, Dr. Cruz-Orcutt performs a TMJ evaluation.

The temporomandibular joints, called TMJ, are the joints and jaw muscles that make it possible to open and close your mouth. Located on each side of the head, your TMJ work together when you chew, speak, or swallow and include muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. They also control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward, and side to side.

Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and the socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and rotate or glide. Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones from working properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

Possible causes of TMJ disorders include:
• arthritis
• dislocation
• injury
• tooth and jaw alignment
• stress and teeth grinding

Diagnosis is an important step before treatment. Part of the dental examination includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving.

If necessary, for your symptoms, the following treatments may be advised:
• exercises to strengthen your jaw muscles
• medications prescribed by your dentist; for example, muscle relaxants, analgesics, anti-anxiety drugs, or anti-inflammatory medications
• a night guard or bite plate to decrease clenching or grinding of teeth.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend fixing an uneven bite by adjusting or reshaping some teeth. Orthodontic treatment may also be recommended. Your dentist can suggest the most appropriate therapy based on the suspected cause.