TMJ

image of man in pain pressing his fingers against his jaw

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. Up to 10 million people suffer from painful temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Symptoms include pain in the face and neck, locked jaw or limited jaw movement, painful clicking when moving the mouth, dizziness, difficulty chewing or swallowing and a change in the way the teeth fit together. TMD is about four times more common in women than men.

Causes

TMD has many causes, some physical, some emotional. A jaw injury, such as one caused by a car accident or being hit hard by a ball, can lead to TMD. Degenerative joint disease is another leading physical cause of TMD.

Emotional stress can cause behaviors that lead to TMD, such as clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth.

Conventional Treatment

You can manage TMD through medications or lifestyle interventions. Your doctor may recommend muscle relaxants or pain relievers. Certain types of antidepressants also relieve pain. If you clench your teeth at night, aggravating your TMD pain, your doctor might prescribe a sedative. These medications bring along a variety of side effects.

Other interventions don’t require drugs. Rest your jaws by eating soup or soft food. Avoid chewing gum. Firm or soft bite guards sometimes relieve pain, and keep you from grinding your teeth at night. Ice packs or moist heat can help. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen and stretch your jaw muscles.

If stress and anxiety are the cause of your TMD, try relaxation techniques. Mindfulness meditation, acupuncture, biofeedback, talking to a counselor or massage might help.

In extreme cases, some doctors recommend surgery to repair this joint.

Chiropractic Care and TMJ

Some patients with TMD find relief through chiropractic care. A chiropractor can manipulate your neck and jaw to improve alignment and relax muscle tension. Many chiropractors will also recommend special exercises, hot and cold treatment and other non-pharmaceutical interventions. Your chiropractor might team up with your dentist to provide the best care.

If you’re suffering from TMD, call us today so we can help ease your jaw pain.

Call 714-579-3900 to make an appointment.

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-6:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-6:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:30 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

By Appointment

Sunday:

Closed

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Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "A friend recommended Dr. Bair to me when I was suffering from migraine headaches. Dr. Bair’s adjustments were so effective and gentle that I decided to take my 10 year old son who has sleep apnea in for an adjustment. The results were immediate. My son was breathing much better while he slept and had much less gasping in his sleep. His energy level increased and he seems much happier. I now take all three of my active sons in for adjustments. Thank you, Dr. Bair, for a healthier family!"
    Carrie L. Yorba Linda, CA
  • "I was referred to Dr. Bair by a co-worker when my chiropractor of 10 yrs closed unexpectedly. I can honestly say I wish I would of found Dr. Bair sooner. Within a year of my first visit, I was involved in a car accident while pregnant and wouldn't allow anyone to touch me until I was able to see him. I put my health and the health of my baby in his hands with full confidence!"
    Cathy S., Lakewood

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