TMJ Disorders in Connecticut

TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ), are the joints on each side of your head (right and left) that connect your jaw to your skull. These joints and surrounding muscles, bones and ligaments act as hinges when you open and close your mouth. They control the lower jaw as it moves side-to-side, forward and backward. Anything that impedes the complex elements of the joint from working in sync can cause a painful TMJ disorder.

Symptoms such as an achy jaw, limited range of motion, pain while chewing, severe headaches or a clicking sound in the jaw can be indicative of a TMJ disorder. Often, the specific cause may not be clear, but can include arthritis, injury, chronic clenching or grinding of teeth, joint dislocation, misaligned bite and erosion or misalignment of the disk in the joint. Early detection and treatment are vital, as some types of TMJ disorders may lead to more serious conditions.

Treatment For TMJ Disorders

Often, the discomfort and pain associated with a TMJ disorder is temporary and can be treated non-surgically with anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxers, a soft diet, jaw exercises and mouth guards that protect teeth and jaws from grinding or clenching. TMJ disorders can be complex, and often require several treatment approaches, time and patience to resolve the condition.

Surgery typically is considered a last resort, but in some cases, it is necessary to treat a TMJ disorder. There are several types of procedures that can be performed to treat TMJ, including, open joint surgery, arthroscopy and arthrocentesis.

We Can Help

If you have exhausted all other options to treat your TMJ disorder, we can help to ease your pain and restore your jaw to health. No two TMJ cases are alike, and based on your individual needs and condition, Dr. Kashmanian will determine the best course of action to take, discuss all options available, and answer any questions or concerns you may have about your TMJ disorder and whether surgery is right for you.

If you are looking for a relief from the discomfort of a TMJ disorder, contact one of our offices in Pomfret or Southbridge to schedule an appointment today.