Services and Procedures

What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for “temporomandibular joint”. The TMJ attaches the lower jaw to the skull. The term is used popularly to describe a painful complex of symptoms in the TMJ, which should more accurately be referred to as TMJ Disorder (TMD).

What causes TMD?
Typically, TMD is caused when there is a problem with the bite. When the teeth don’t come together properly, a condition called ‘malocclusion’, the nerves and muscles of the face are forced into a position of being chronically strained. The result is that eventually the facial muscles can’t provide the kind of support needed for proper chewing and swallowing. Over time, the relationship of the jaw joint to the skull becomes chronically misaligned.

What are the symptoms of TMD?
The most common symptoms are pain and soreness in the jaw joint, especially in the morning, as well as clicking or popping in the joint. Some people also experience difficulty in opening their mouth widely.

Other symptoms include headaches or migraines; worn, chipped or cracked teeth and chronic stiffness or soreness in the neck, shoulders and back. For a complete list of signs and symptoms, see Neuromuscular Dentistry.

How do you treat TMD?
In some cases, TMD can be treated by making small adjustments to the bite to bring it back into proper alignment. Dr. Parker’s training in Neuromuscular Dentistry makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat conditions related to malocclusion. Using the techniques of neuromuscular dentistry, we can gently and effectively return your jaw to its most optimal physiologic position, eliminating pain and other symptoms.