TMJ is an abbreviation for “temporomandibular joint”, which is the technical name for the jaw joint. It is called “temporomandibular” because it connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the “temporal” (underneath the temples) skull bone directly in front of your ears. The jaw joints and the attached muscles are what you use when you talk, chew or yawn.

TMJ Disorders (TMD) are problems with these jaw joints or the muscles that control them. Various forces can cause undue stress on these structures which results in face pain, neck pain, headaches and other difficulties.

Dental Specialist in Bite Alignment and TMJ Function

As a prosthodontist, Dr. Bhave is a dental specialist in the aesthetic and functional restoration of teeth. Establishing proper bite alignment and jaw motion are key elements in creating a fully functional and comfortable smile.

Part of her advanced training includes a full understanding of how the jaw joints work and the ability to effectively treat TMJ disorders. Dr. Bhave is highly skilled at providing relief from TMJ discomfort and can treatment plan even complex cases for resolution of TMJ problems.

Symptoms That Indicate a Malfunctioning TMJ

Typical symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD) include:

• Neck pain
• Upper shoulder pain
• Difficulty opening the mouth very wide
• Clicking, popping or grating sounds when opening and closing the mouth
• Facial pain or tenderness around the jaw joint area
• Headaches
• Ringing in the ears
• Toothaches
• Earaches
• Difficulty chewing
• Jaws that get “locked”

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, take advantage of our special offer to see Dr. Bhave for a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, consultation and treatment plan. Your visit will include:

Contact us to request an appointment

Discovering Causes of TMJ Problems

TMJ problems can be caused by a number of different factors, each of which throw the jaw joints out of alignment and create excessive strain in the surrounding muscles and nerves. Chief sources of these problems are bite misalignment, teeth grinding, teeth clenching and muscle tightening resulting from emotional stress. Problems can also result from the joints becoming dislocated, receiving an injury or developing arthritis.

Dr. Bhave conducts a thorough clinical exam to discover what is causing your symptoms. This includes a comprehensive check of your bite alignment and a full inspection of the muscle tension in your face, neck and shoulders.

3D CT Scan of Teeth & Jaw

She also takes a 3D CT scan of your teeth, jaw and surrounding anatomy. The scanned images provide crisp 3D 360-degree views of the jaw joint and surrounding structures, providing detailed information not available from any other method. From the data gathered, Dr. Bhave develops a customized treatment plan to address the situation.

Treatment for TMJ Disorders

The following are the main treatments Dr. Bhave uses to relieve or resolve TMJ problems:

Oral appliance therapy

Dr. Bhave can custom-fabricate an oral appliance, similar to a night guard, that maintains your jaws comfortably in an optimum position while you sleep. This relieves a great deal of jaw and/or muscle strain.

Oral appliances can also be made to prevent the tendency to grind or clench your teeth. Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment for alleviating TMJ problems for the vast majority of cases.

Orthodontic Correction

Sometimes misaligned and crooked teeth create an improper bite relationship which puts undue strain on the jaw joints or connected muscles. Dr. Bhave can straighten teeth with Invisalign® clear aligners. With Invisalign, teeth are straightened without the discomfort and inconvenience that comes with wearing traditional braces.

Learn more about Invisalign.

New Dental Restorations

Dental restorations such as crowns, dental bridges and implant-supported new teeth can sometimes help create optimum bite alignment and reduce or eliminate the stress on your jaw joints. Dr. Bhave is a specialist in designing and placing restorations that are well-fitting and align with the rest of your bite. She will let you know if new dental restorations would be appropriate for your situation.

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TMJ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, the hinge-like joint connecting your jaw to your skull. This joint allows you to speak, chew, and move your jaw. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a group of conditions causing pain and functional problems in the TMJ and nearby muscles. 

People often say “TMJ” when referring to TMDs, so much so that TMJ has become a shorthand phrase that most people know. Because patients are familiar with the term, our team often refers to these disorders similarly. 

Is TMJ treatment permanent, or will symptoms return?

TMJ treatment can provide long-term relief. However, success can vary based on the severity of the condition and your adherence to your prescribed treatment plan. Our patients often get lasting results with custom oral appliances, orthodontic corrections, new dental restorations, bite adjustments, or a combination of these approaches.  

However, if habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching continue, symptoms could return. Dr. Bhave and our team help you find the right approach to minimize your risk of recurring pain.

What happens if TMJ is left untreated?

Without treatment, TMJ disorder symptoms can steadily worsen, infiltrating every part of your life. Beyond jaw movement problems and pain, you could develop chronic headaches, earaches, neck muscle tension, and balance issues.

Untreated TMJ can also harm your teeth, potentially leading to uneven tooth wear, dental damage, and even permanent bite changes in your bite. Addressing TMJ early can prevent these complications and improve your quality of life.

Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?

Insurance coverage for TMJ treatment varies based on your provider and plan. Some policies cover treatments like oral appliances, while others classify TMJ care as elective. 

At Bay Area Dental Specialists, we’re here to make treatment accessible and understandable, so our team is happy to review your options with you.

Can TMJ disorder cause headaches and ear pain?

Yes, TMJ disorder frequently causes headaches and ear pain. The jaw muscles and TMJ are connected to nerves that run through the head, face, and ears. 

Inflammation or misalignment in the joint pressures these nerves, leading to tension headaches, migraines, and tinnitus. Treatment can alleviate these symptoms.

Does TMJ disorder affect facial symmetry?

TMJ disorder can contribute to facial asymmetry in some cases. If one side of your jaw is under more strain than the other, it can lead to muscle imbalances, swelling, or even jaw alignment. 

Severe cases may cause one side of the face to appear more prominent or sunken compared to the other. Early treatment can help prevent these changes and restore facial balance.

Can TMJ cause dizziness or balance issues?

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause dizziness and balance problems. The TMJ is near your inner ear, which helps regulate balance. Inflammation or tension in the joint can lead to dizziness, vertigo, or feeling off-balance. Treating the underlying TMJ issue often helps improve these symptoms.

What foods should I avoid with TMJ?

Dr. Bhave may recommend avoiding hard, chewy, or tough foods to reduce jaw strain. Some specific foods that may make TMJ worse are: 

• Chewing gum
• Hard candies
• Tough meats
• Crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, and raw vegetables
• Chewy foods like bagels or steak

Instead, opt for softer foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies when you’re hurting. Cutting food into small bites can also help ease jaw stress. 

TMJ Treatment in San Jose and the Bay Area

TMJ is treatable, and seeking help early can save you months or years of discomfort. Call Bay Area Dental Specialists at 408-809-7760 to book your consultation now.