TMJ/TMD Therapy – Fairfax, VA

What is TMJ/TMD?

The symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome include pain in the jaw joint and soreness around the muscles that control jaw movement. If left untreated, the jaw can become permanently misaligned. This condition is also known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

Many patients with arthritis develop TMJ/TMD as the bones start to wear down, but it can also affect people with bruxism (teeth grinding problem) and those who have a misalignment of their teeth and jaw.

Causes and Symptoms of TMD

Pain and soreness in the TMD joint can have some causes, including:

• Bite misalignment
• Teeth grinding
• Poor posture
• Stress
• Arthritis
• Gum chewing
• Injury to the joint
• A fractured jaw

Many symptoms become associated with TMJ/TMD pain, and Dr. Murray will conduct some simple tests to determine how your jaw is moving and to identify the source of your pain precisely. In addition to chronic or acute pain in the jaw, common symptoms of TMJ/TMD include:

• Ongoing pain around the ears and face
• Tenderness of the jaw muscles
• Facial swelling
• Migraines
• Headaches
• Pain and pressure behind the eyes
• Jaw that frequently gets “locked,” or stuck in place

TMJ/TMD Treatment

Dr. Murray has received advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute specifically for the treatment of TMJ/TMD. He can help you find relief from TMJ/TMD pain and discomfort by fitting you with an oral appliance, which helps to move your jaw into a more comfortable position that places less stress and pressure around the jaw as you go about your day.

Many patients feel better by merely wearing this appliance as they “retrain” their jaw to stay in this new position. Over time, you should notice your symptoms start to disappear.

Will I Need Surgery for TMJ/TMD?

Only very severe cases of TMJ/TMD syndrome require surgery, and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon typically performs this. After reviewing X-rays of the joint and learning more about your symptoms, Dr. Murray may refer you to a specialist qualified to perform this surgery.

If you’re suffering from TMJ/TMD pain, Dr. Murray will check the health of your jaw joints and determine the best treatment to alleviate your pain.