TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joints. These are the two joints that connect your jaw to your skull. TMJ Dysfunction is a common term used to describe the group of symptoms that result when the jaws, teeth, and muscles fail to work together in harmony because the jaw joints are out of place.

Symptoms can include, popping jaw joints, limited opening of the mouth, and / or locking of the jaws. Frequently patients will complain of headaches, earaches, neck and shoulder pain, ringing in the ears, dizziness and toothaches. These discomforts are usually the result of muscle spasms that occur when the muscles attached to the jaw bones and jaw joints are strained by an unstable bite. Headaches caused by TMJ Dysfunction are commonly described as being of migraine nature.

The first goal is to relieve the muscle spasms and pain. This is usually accomplished with physical therapy and special exercises. The patient will in nearly all cases be fitted with a temporary device know as a splint to be worn over the teeth until the bite is stabilized. This device will be designed to be the least visible as possible.