TMJ Disorders: Understanding the Causes and Finding Relief at Dental Arts of Salem

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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most important joints in your body, connecting your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to talk, chew, and express emotions. However, when this joint becomes damaged or misaligned, it can lead to a painful condition known as TMJ disorder. At Dental Arts of Salem, Dr. Sameer Dogra and Dr. Sonia Nagi provide expert diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders, helping patients find relief from pain and improve their quality of life.

What is TMJ?

Set of Dentures

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which is located on both sides of your head, just in front of your ears. This joint allows the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side, facilitating essential functions like chewing, speaking, and swallowing. When there is dysfunction or inflammation in the TMJ, it can result in a variety of symptoms that affect daily life, often causing discomfort and difficulty with basic jaw movement.


A TMJ disorder (often referred to as TMD) occurs when the joint or muscles around it become damaged or misaligned. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and a reduced range of motion in the jaw.

SMILE GALLERY

Before: Patient needs Upper Arch Rehabilitation. Presents with Upper Anterior Teeth that are stained, Incisal Edges (tooth edge) are worn down and chipped, and Gumline Recession is present.

After: Smile restored with placement of 8 Upper All Porcelain Crowns (Caps). Gumline and Incisal Edges are now uniform. Patient now has longer, better shaped teeth to enhance the smile line and aid in chewing/biting function.
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Before: Patient needs a Single Tooth Replacement of one Upper Central Incisor.

After: Smile and function restored with a Single Implant and an All Porcelain Crown (Cap) that fits securely over the implant.
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Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can vary in severity, with some patients experiencing mild discomfort while others endure debilitating pain. Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

  • Jaw Pain

    Persistent pain or tenderness in the jaw, especially around the joint.

  • Clicking or Popping

    A clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth.

  • Limited Jaw Movement

    Difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth.

  • Facial Pain

    Pain around the face, neck, or shoulders, particularly near the jaw joint.

  • Headaches

    Frequent tension headaches or migraines, often stemming from jaw tension.

  • Ear Pain

    A sensation of fullness or pain in the ear, sometimes with difficulty hearing.

  • Teeth Grinding

    Unconscious grinding or clenching of the teeth, especially at night.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Woman with curly hair, eyes closed, touching cheek, grimacing in pain.
Illustration of a skull showing the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with inflamed, red-highlighted areas.

Causes of TMJ Disorders

There are several potential causes and contributing factors to TMJ disorders, including:

  • Jaw Injury

    Accidents or trauma to the jaw can damage the TMJ, leading to misalignment or dysfunction. This may include falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

    Teeth grinding or clenching, especially at night, can place immense pressure on the TMJ, leading to strain, inflammation, and pain. Stress is a major trigger for bruxism.

  • Misaligned Bite

    A misaligned bite or uneven teeth can cause irregular pressure on the TMJ, leading to discomfort. This misalignment can be the result of crooked teeth, missing teeth, or dental restorations that don’t fit properly.

  • Arthritis

    Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the TMJ, causing inflammation and pain in the joint.

  • Stress and Tension

    Stress is a common cause of TMJ disorders, as it can lead to increased muscle tension, jaw clenching, and grinding. Emotional stress and physical tension can exacerbate existing TMJ symptoms.

  • Hormonal Factors

    Studies have shown that women are more likely to develop TMJ disorders, and hormonal fluctuations may play a role. Estrogen and progesterone levels, particularly during menstruation or menopause, may affect the tissues surrounding the TMJ.

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Diagnosing TMJ Disorders

To properly diagnose a TMJ disorder, Dr. Dogra and Dr. Nagi will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include:

  • A Thorough Review of Symptoms

    A discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to the condition.

  • Physical Examination

    A hands-on exam to check for jaw tenderness, clicking, and range of motion.

  • X-Rays or Imaging

    Advanced imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, may be used to evaluate the condition of the joint and surrounding tissues.

This complete evaluation helps the team at Dental Arts of Salem determine the cause of your TMJ disorder and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Dental chair and equipment in a bright, clean office.
A gloved hand with a dental tool points to the jawbone of a skull model to demonstrate temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders

At Dental Arts of Salem, we offer a variety of effective treatment options to help patients manage and alleviate TMJ symptoms. The treatment plan will depend on the severity and cause of the disorder.

  • Night Guards and Splints

    One of the most common treatments for TMJ disorders caused by teeth grinding or jaw clenching is the use of a custom-made night guard or splint. These devices help reduce pressure on the TMJ by cushioning the teeth and preventing grinding. Wearing a night guard can also help alleviate pain and protect the teeth from damage.

  • Physical Therapy

    Physical therapy can be beneficial in strengthening the jaw muscles and improving the function of the TMJ. Specific exercises and stretches, along with heat or cold therapy, can help relieve pain and improve mobility.

  • Medications

    Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild TMJ pain. In some cases, muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce muscle tension and inflammation in the joint.

  • Bite Adjustments

    If your TMJ disorder is caused by misalignment, dental adjustments or orthodontic treatments may be necessary. This may include reshaping the teeth, installing crowns or bridges, or even using orthodontics to realign the bite and relieve pressure on the TMJ.

  • Stress Management

    Since stress is a major contributing factor to TMJ disorders, managing stress is an important part of treatment. Techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, yoga, and counseling can help reduce the physical and emotional strain that exacerbates TMJ symptoms.

  • Surgical Options

    In rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint. Surgical options include arthroscopy, open-joint surgery, or TMJ replacement.

Why Choose Dental Arts of Salem for TMJ Treatment?

At Dental Arts of Salem, we understand how painful and debilitating TMJ disorders can be. That’s why Dr. Dogra and Dr. Nagi offer personalized care and the latest treatment options to help patients achieve relief and restore normal jaw function. Here’s why patients trust us for their TMJ treatment:

  • Comprehensive Diagnosis

    We take the time to accurately diagnose your TMJ disorder and understand the root cause of your symptoms.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Our team creates personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring the best possible results.

  • Advanced Technology

    We use the latest imaging and diagnostic tools to evaluate your TMJ health and provide the most effective treatment options.

  • Comfort and Care

    Our goal is to make your treatment experience as comfortable as possible. We offer a range of sedation options to ensure you feel relaxed and at ease during your visit.

Close-up of a skull, TMJ letters, x-ray, and medical tools, indicating TMJ diagnosis.

Schedule Your TMJ Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty with jaw movement, don’t wait—contact Dental Arts of Salem today to schedule a consultation. Our team will work with you to identify the cause of your TMJ disorder and provide a tailored treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.


Call us at  (603) 898-9180 to learn more about how we can help you find relief from TMJ discomfort and improve your quality of life.

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We accept most major dental insurance, including Delta Dental Insurance Plans, Guardian Direct Insurance, Cigna, and Metlife.

TMJ

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