At Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we understand that no two TMJ patients are the same. We design a unique treatment plan for every patient. With an accurate diagnosis and a properly designed treatment plan, we can help you find relief from TMJ symptoms for life.

What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

Located on either side of your head near your ears is the temporomandibular joint. The purpose of this joint is to act as a hinge and connect the jaw bone to your skull. The joints work harmoniously with the surrounding muscles. When the joints become imbalanced, the joint no longer functions smoothly. As a result, it can result in painful symptoms and a decreased quality of life.

A lot of factors can cause TMJ including:

  • Long-term teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Improper bite or teeth that don’t fit together correctly (Malocclusion)
  • Jaw injury that damages the temporomandibular joint or surrounding areas
  • Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis

Dr. Larry Pribyl’s ultimate goal is to help your temporomandibular joint find its most comfortable resting position through TMJ treatment to allow the muscles and joints to work together harmoniously again.

Symptoms of TMJ

One of the reasons TMJ is so hard to diagnose and treat is because there are so many symptoms that can get mistaken for something else. Many of these symptoms overlap with other conditions too. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain
  • Popping or clicking jaws
  • Limited jaw mobility
  • Lockjaw – stuck open or closed
  • Frequent headaches and migraines
  • Ear ringing
  • Ear stuffiness or earache
  • Vertigo
  • Back, shoulder, face or neck pain
  • Tooth wear, chipping or cracking
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers and hands
  • Insomnia

It’s very common for these symptoms to get diagnosed as a different condition when it is actually caused by TMJ. If this is the case, the prescribed treatments won’t help you. If you believe you were misdiagnosed with a condition and think you might have TMJ, please contact our dental office for an evaluation.