Commonly known as the TMJ, the temporomandibular joint is located on either side of the face in front of the ears. If you place two fingers in front of your ears and open and close your mouth, you can feel this joint at work.

Sometimes, a TMJ disorder occurs and results in pain or discomfort. Signs of a TMJ disorder include:

  • Difficulty opening the mouth completely
  • Grating, popping, or clicking sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Increased headaches or dizziness
  • Hearing loss, ear pain, or ringing in the ears
  • Pain in and around the jaw joints
  • Difficulty biting or chewing foods

Sometimes the cause of a TMJ disorder is not known. Common conditions related to a TMJ disorder include:

  • Injury to the jaw or muscles in the neck or head
  • Arthritis
  • Grinding or clenching teeth
  • Displaced or perforated disk in the joint
  • Jaw misalignment
  • Congenital defect

We offer several forms of anesthesia options to help you feel calm and comfortable during any surgical procedure.

Many TMJ disorders can be treated at home with self-managed care or nonsurgical treatments. Some TMJ disorders go away on their own. However, persistent or severe cases of TMJ may require surgical treatment. Your doctor will determine a plan to treat your TMJ based on the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder. When you come to Whitewater Oral Surgery Group, you will receive an oral examination, X-rays, and 3D imaging to determine treatment.