The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. The TMJ allows you to open and close your mouth and move your jaw side to side so you can talk, chew, and yawn. Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket that cushions the load of the joint. Any issue that keeps the TMJ from working properly can result in a TMJ disorder. If you have any of the following symptoms, Dr. Steven Ross may treat TMJ in Salinas, California:
- Pain in your face, jaw joint, neck and shoulders, and around the ear
- Issues when you open your mouth wide
- Jaws locking open or shut
- Clicking or grating sounds when you move your jaw
- Trouble chewing
- A sudden uncomfortable bite
- Swelling on the face
TMJ disorders can be caused by arthritis, dislocation, injury, tooth and jaw misalignment, and teeth grinding. If you have a TMJ disorder, our dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Jaw muscle exercises
- Prescribed medications like muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety drugs
- A night guard or bite plate to protect your teeth and jaws from the effects of teeth clenching and grinding
We invite you to contact Ross Family Dental today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.