Q. What is TMJ?
A. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular joint  . The term TMJ has been used commonly to describe a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement.

Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?

A. Trauma to the jaw or temporomandibular joint plays a role in some TMJ disorders but in most cases, the exact cause of the condition is not clear. A variety of symptoms may be linked to TMJ disorders. Pain in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint is the most common symptom; others include jaw muscle stiffness; limited movement or locking of the jaw; painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth; and a change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.  Many patients also report chronic tension headaches and stiffness in neck.

Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?

A. For many people with TMJ disorders, short-term use of over-the-counter pain medicines or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen, may provide temporary relief from jaw discomfort. When necessary, your dentist or doctor can prescribe stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-depressants to help ease symptoms.

Q. Who should treat TMD?

A. Because there is no certified specialty for TMJ disorders in either dentistry or medicine, finding the right care can be difficult.  Look for a health care provider who understands musculoskeletal disorders (affecting muscle, bone and joints) and who is trained in treating pain conditions.

Q. What should you expect from a TMD doctor?

A. You should expect TMD doctor to perform a thorough and complete examination.  Avoid treatments  that cause permanent changes in the bite or jaw. Such treatments include crown and bridge work to balance the bite, orthodontics to change the bite, grinding down teeth to bring the bite into balance (occlusal adjustment), which permanently change the bite.   Until there is science based evidence to help health care providers make sound treatment decisions, National Institute of Health recommends less invasive treatments such as splint or occlusal plane ( a acrylic mouth piece) therapy.  Also stress reduction exercises such as walking, deep breathing relaxation and yoga have shown to reduce TMJ symptoms significantly.

Q. What results can I expect from surgery?

A. If possible, avoid surgical treatment for TMJ. There have been no long-term studies to test the safety and effectiveness of these procedures. Before considering any surgery on the jaw joint, it's important to get opinions from other doctors and to fully understand the risks.   

Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?

A. There are so many dental insurances out there, some does cover TMJ treatment and some do not.  Most dental offices will be very helpful in figuring out benefits for TMJ treatment.