TMJ Disorder Treatment in Dallas and the Park Cities Area

The TMJ is the small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. This joint, while small, is critical for talking, chewing, yawning and swallowing, and it is actually one of the most frequently used joints in the body. Typical symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain or a “clicking” sound. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important. Typical causes of TMJ disorders include: 

• Trauma to the head or neck 
• Arthritis 
• Clenching or grinding of the teeth 
• "Bad" bite or missing teeth 
• Malalignment of the jaws 
• Stress 

Thankfully, TMJ issues are now more easily diagnosed and treated than they were in the past. Treatment options can include anti inflammatories, steroids, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants. Typical treatment plans involve both professional care as well as self care at home, such as resting your jaw, eating soft foods, exercising your jaw, appliances to prevent clenching, and more. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary for TMJ that has created issues for how your teeth fit together. 

At Johnson Oral and Facial Surgery, we will review your case and create a personalized treatment plan to help ease your pain and restore any lost function.

Call (214) 206-4646 or contact us online today to learn more about treatment for TMJ in Dallas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my jaw pain is just temporary, or if I need to see a specialist for TMJ disorder?

It's common to experience occasional jaw discomfort, especially after strenuous chewing or stress. However, if your jaw pain is persistent, recurring, or accompanied by other symptoms like clicking, popping, difficulty opening your mouth, or headaches, it's essential to seek professional evaluation. If the pain radiates to your neck, or ears, then a professional evaluation is also needed. At Johnson Oral Facial Surgery, we can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your long-term comfort.

Are there specific foods I should avoid to minimize TMJ pain?

Certain foods can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. It's advisable to limit or avoid:

• Hard or chewy foods: Such as nuts, hard candies, and tough meats.
• Large bites: Cut food into smaller pieces to reduce jaw strain.
• Sticky foods: Like caramel or gummy candies, which require excessive chewing.
• Excessive gum chewing: This can overwork the jaw muscles.