Do I Have TMJ?

Do I Have TMJ?If you’re suffering from constant headaches and pain in the jaw, you might have a problem in your temporomandibular joints, referred to as TMJ. These muscles are positioned on either side of your skull and make it possible to open and close your mouth, and they can develop problems that your dentist can treat.

Dr. Zachary Sisler has received specialized training from The Dawson Academy for the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of bite dysfunction and TMJ disorders. Dr. Sisler will work with you to relieve any tension you may feel and develop a plan based on your oral health needs. People who suffer from chronic headaches, migraines, and pain in the jaw area may not realize their symptoms may be caused by a TMJ related issue.

What is TMJ?

Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket of the joint, and each disc supports the load while enabling the jaw to open wide, rotate, and glide. This complicated system of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones work together when you chew, speak, and swallow, and also controls the lower jaw as it moves backward, forward, and side-to-side. Anything that prevents this system from working properly is called a TMJ disorder, or TMD.

What Causes TMD?

Possible causes of TMJ disorders include:

  • Dislocation of the jaw
  • Arthritis
  • Misalignment of the jaw and teeth
  • Teeth grinding due to stress, especially during sleep
  • Injury to jaw or surrounding area

TMJ Disorders Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr. Sisler’s goal with TMJ therapy is to gently bring the head, neck, and jaw into a natural, comfortable position. Our dentists start with a comprehensive evaluation to look for the signs and symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. In some cases, advanced diagnostic equipment is used to help identify the source of instability. Some symptoms include tenderness in the muscles and joints in the jaw, clicking, popping, difficulty of motion, and persistent headaches.

For basic cases, there are several methods of treatments for TMJ disorders. This step-by-step plan allows you to try simple remedies at home before moving on to more involved treatment. These steps advocate for a “less is more” approach in treating TMJ disorders, which includes:

  • Applying heat packs to pain
  • Eating softer foods
  • Avoiding chewing non-food items such as fingernails or pen caps

Dr. Sisler can provide TMJ patients with mouth guards that help keep the teeth and jaw in the proper position. Usually worn during sleep, a mouth guard can alleviate symptoms by improving stability of the jaw and reducing inflammation.

TMJ Treatment in Shippensburg, PA

Dr. Sisler and his team at Smile Design by Sisler can help you find relief from TMJ symptoms. To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Shippensburg today, contact Smile Design by Sisler at 717.271.7052 or schedule an appointment online today!