What is TMJ?

Dr. Joseph Boulos and Dr. Julie Boulos at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach, CA can help you achieve relief from TMJ disorder.

 

What Exactly is TMJ?


TMJ is a term that is incorrectly used by many to describe pain in the jaw. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is located on each side of the jaw. This joint is responsible for controlling the movement of the jaw. When you experience pain in the TMJ, it is typically due to TMD or temporomandibular disorder.

 

Signs and Symptoms


One of the most recognizable symptoms is the jaw locking up, which makes it difficult to close and open the mouth. Other symptoms include:


-Pain, swelling, or tenderness on either or both sides of the jaw

-Pain in or around the ear

-Pain while chewing or inability to chew properly

-Headaches

-Noises when opening and closing the mouth, typically clicking or grating

-Facial pain or fatigue

-Ringing ears

-Toothaches, usually in conjunction with other symptoms

-Pain in the neck and shoulders

 

Many symptoms listed here can be common with other issues as well. The best way to determine if it’s TMJ disorder is to visit All Coast Dental for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

 

Causes of TMJ Disorder


The TMJ has a shock-absorbing disc and cartilage. Pain in the TMJ typically occurs when either the cartilage is damaged or the disc shifts out of place or is eroded. These situations can happen due to several different things, some of the most common being:


-Arthritis

-Injury

-Genetics

-Stress

-Clenching or grinding teeth

-Dislocation

-Fibromyalgia

 

Treating TMJ Disorder


Treatment for TMJ disorder in Pacific Beach, CA begins with a visit to Dr. Joseph or Dr. Julie. After a consultation, they’ll do any testing necessary to determine if it’s TMJ disorder or another condition. From there, they will discuss treatment options with you to determine the best course of action. There are both surgical and non-surgical treatments available for TMJ disorder. When possible, any treatments performed will be as non-invasive as possible.

 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should seek care as soon as possible. Dr. Joseph and Dr. Julie at All Coast Dental can diagnose and treat TMJ disorder in Pacific Beach, CA. Call (858) 270-4904 to schedule your appointment today.

Contact Us Today!

We are looking forward to hearing from you!

OUR LOCATION

2180 Garnet Avenue, Suite 1-K Pacific Beach, CA 92109

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Business Hours

Monday:

7:40 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-4:00 pm

(Administrative Staff)

Friday:

7:40 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

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