Questions about Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD)

Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades & Brentwood, CA Dentistry

What causes TMJ/TMD?

Temporomandibular joint disorder may be caused by a number of factors, but it is commonly associated with bite conditions and jaw alignment problems.

What are the most common symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

Most patients who suffer from TMJ/TMD experience multiple symptoms which include but are not limited to:

• Migraine-like headaches
• Neck, shoulder and facial pain
• Ringing ears/tinnitus
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Locking or sticking of the jaw
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

How serious is TMJ/TMD?

If not treated, TMJ/TMD can lead to chronic pain, loss of sleep and depression, and it can also lead to progressive oral health problems such as excessive wear on the teeth and gum disease.

What are the treatment options for TMJ/TMD?

The right TMJ/TMD treatment for you will depend on the severity and source of your condition. Some patients benefit through mild electrical stimulation provided by a TENS unit, while other patients require bite correction through the use of oral appliances. Using advanced technology and the principles of neuromuscular dentistry, Santa Monica dentist Dr. Ana Brightleaf can diagnose the cause of your TMJ/TMD and design a treatment plan to correct the cause and relieve your discomfort.

If you suffer from symptoms of TMJ/TMD and would like to learn about treatment options, please contact Brightleaf Cosmetic & Holistic Dentistry to schedule your consultation with Santa Monica neuromuscular dentist Dr. Ana Brightleaf.