Effective Treatment for TMJ headaches and pain

The TMJ (temporomandibular joint or jaw joint) is the joint that connects the lower jaw and the skull. It is the joint that you use to talk, chew or yawn.  

TMJ Disorder (TMD) is the improper functioning of the jaw joint. TMJ Disorder can be caused by the jaw joint going out of alignment. TMJ Disorder can cause headaches as well as pain in the face, jaw, and neck.

Read more about the typical symptoms of TMJ

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

  • Misaligned (bad) bite – The most common causes or reasons for TMJ disorder are clenching and grinding of teeth and a misaligned (bad) bite or malocclusion. A misaligned bite can occur as a result of genetics, trauma, worn-away or missing teeth, or poor body posture. Tooth grinding can also damage teeth by wearing them down and puts undue stress on dental bridges, implants and other tooth restorations.
  • Disk erosion – The parts of the TMJ bones are separated by a disk made of cartilage. If this disk erodes or is damaged by arthritis, TMJ disorders can occur.
  • Stress – People who are under a great deal of stress can develop a bad habit of tightening their facial and jaw muscles or clenching their teeth.
  • Injury due to blunt force trauma – Blunt force trauma due to injury can create a TMJ disorder. In some cases, TMJ disorders may also be caused by diet or allergies.

Highly Skilled, Experienced TMJ Dentist

Dr. Padolsky has over 30 years of experience treating TMJ Disorders and has successfully treated thousands of patients with TMJ issues. He has 450 dentists who send their patients to him for TMJ treatment.

Accurate Diagnosis for Effective Treatment

The key to effectively alleviating the symptoms of TMJ Disorder lies in finding their cause. Dr. Padolsky will first review your dental and medical history and conduct a thorough oral exam.

During your visit he will do a cranial exam and check the muscles in your head, face and neck. He will also examine your temporo-mandibular temporo-mandibular joints. Based on the results, Dr. Padolsky will customize a treatment plan to alleviate your TMJ issues.

Reducing Muscle Tension

Since the pain experienced by 90% of the patients we see stems from muscle pain, the first priority is to relieve muscle tension, spasms or pain. This allows the jaw muscles to return to normal so that Dr. Padolsky can accurately assess the condition of the jaw joint.

Pain Medication

Dr. Padolsky may recommend anti-inflammatory medicine such as Motrin, Nuprin or Advil. These medications can help relieve muscle pain.

Relief with Massage

Therapeutic massage may be used to reduce tension and ease symptoms. Massage can offer temporary relief, an important step in treating TMJ issues.

Custom Oral Appliance

Dr. Padolski has found that oral appliances are the most effective form of TMJ treatment.  The doctor will create a custom oral appliance that keeps your jaw relaxed and in position. Oral appliances can also adjust the bite so that it goes into an optimal, natural position.

Orthodontic therapy

TMJ Disorder can be effectively treated with braces as part of an orthodontic treatment to correct a bite or misaligned teeth. When the teeth are in their correct position, the TMJ return to its proper alignment and thereby alleviate TMJ symptoms.

To make an appointment, call 404-476-5504 or click here to request an appointment online.