TMJ Treatment

TMJ is an abbreviation for the Temporo-Mandibular Joint, where the upper and lower jaws come together… i.e., the temporal bone of the skull, (Temporo) with the lower jaw or mandible, (mandibular). The Temporo-Mandibular Joint is the most complex joint in the human body, and when this joint is not functioning properly, it can cause a host of problems. These problems include but are not limited to headaches, facial pain, jaw pain, ear pain, ear stuffiness, ringing in the ears, and jaw clicking and popping. Facial and/or head trauma, whiplash, and stress are three of the main causes of TMJ problems, although there are many other things that can trigger these symptoms.

At Jackson Orthodontics, we have been conservatively treating TMJ since 1986. Our TMJ treatment consists primarily of splint therapy and neuromuscular massage therapy. A splint can protect the teeth and joint if there is clenching or grinding, which eases muscle tension and takes pressure off the joint. Neuromuscular massage helps to relax the muscles around the head, neck, and jaw and shoulders. We have a licensed massage therapist on staff, so the massages are performed in the office for your convenience (MA6833; MM14511).