Jaw Joint Disorders (TMJ)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder also known as TMJ, means that the hinge connecting the upper and lower parts of your jaw is not working properly. This hinge is one of the most complex joints in the body, responsible for moving the lower jaw down, forward, backward and side-to-side.
SYMPTOMS
Though the condition of TMJ in itself isn't usually serious, the nature of the symptoms can significantly lower your quality of life. Here are some of the symptoms:
clicking, popping or grating noises as you chew or move your mouth
muscle pain around the jaw
pain in front of the ear that may spread to the cheek, ear and temple
difficulty opening the mouth – the jaw may feel tight, as if it is stuck, making eating difficult
headaches and migraines
ear aches and ear buzz or blocked sensation in the ear
pain in other areas of the body such as aching in the neck and back
Jaw Joint Disorders (TMJ)
factsheet
Evaluating Jaw Joint Disorders (TMJ)
Paramount Dental Sydney use the most advanced diagnostic equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders. We begin with a thorough examination which includes:
Postural examination
Cranial examination
Dental exam
Neurological exam
We will look at the range of motion of the jaw: speed of opening and closing, joint sounds as well as any inflammation and pain. Part of the evaluation also includes your sleep. This will allow us to determine whether you have a sleeping disorder which could be contributing to your TMJ pain. Scanning your head and neck will determine if there is any obstruction of your nasal cavities or airways.
Treating Jaw Joint Disorders (TMJ)
Paramount Dental Sydney use Dental Orthotics and a range of adjunctive therapies, including orthodontics, to help alleviate the pain of TMJ while correcting your bite. These special orthotics and splints are designed to maximise jaw function and restore your ability to breathe properly. You may be required to wear the splints during the day and night allowing your jaw to heal just like a fractured bone is plastered.
Dental Orthotics treatment time is usually three months but in more severe cases the treatment can take longer. Paramount Dental Sydney has excellent treatment results with more than 70% of people experience dramatic improvement and our personalised service means you do not have to live with the pain and debilitation of jaw joint disorders (TMJ).
COST
From $650 for dental orthotics
Medicare rebates and Healthcare cover may cover some of the costs associated with treatment of jaw joint disorders (TMJ).