TMJ Disorders

Florida Oral & Facial Surgical Associates helps patients with TMJ disorders in Daytona Beach, Palm Coast, New Smyrna Beach, Titusville, Deltona, Port Orange and Ormond Beach, FL.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. It permits the lower jaw (mandible) to move and function. If there are problems with TMJ functioning, you should consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon as soon as possible.

Here at Florida Oral & Facial Surgical Associates, we have helped countless patients in Daytona Beach, Palm Coast, New Smyrna Beach and the surrounding areas who were suffering with TMJ disorders. If you believe that you are suffering with this problem, please consult some TMJ disorders before and after pictures to see how treatment can benefit you. And if you'd like to learn more about the procedures, including average TMJ disorders prices, please give us a call today.

What are Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders are not uncommon and have a variety of symptoms. Patients may complain of earaches, headaches and limited ability to open their mouth. They may also complain of clicking or grating sounds in the joint and feel pain when opening and closing their mouth. What must be determined, of course, is the cause.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

Stress may trigger pain in the jaw muscles that is very similar to that caused by TMJ problems. Affected patients frequently clench or grind their teeth at night causing painful spasms in the muscles and difficulty in moving the jaw. Patients may also experience a combination of muscle and joint problems. That is why diagnosing TMJ disorders can be complex and may require different diagnostic procedures.

What are the Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders?

When symptoms of TMJ trouble appear, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon should be consulted. A specialist in the areas of the mouth, teeth and jaws, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is in a good position to correctly diagnose the problem. Special imaging studies of the joints may be ordered and appropriate referral to other dental or medical specialists or a physical therapist may be made.

TMJ disorders treatment may range from conservative dental and medical care to complex surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include short-term, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and muscle relaxation, bite plate or splint therapy, and even stress management counseling.

Generally, if non-surgical treatment is unsuccessful or if there is clear joint damage, surgery may be indicated. Surgery can involve either arthroscopy (the method identical to the orthopedic procedures used to inspect and treat larger joints such as the knee) or repair of damaged tissue by a direct surgical approach. To see the results of both methods, we recommend viewing some TMJ disorders before and after pictures. Once TMJ disorders are correctly diagnosed, appropriate treatment can be provided.

What are TMJ Disorders Costs?

As with most oral surgery procedures, TMJ disorders costs will differ from patient to patient. It will all depend on the root cause and the method of treatment that is chosen. To discuss your specific case with the surgeon in person, please give us a call today and we'd be happy to schedule you a one-on-one consultation.