TMJ In Houston

TMJ (temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder) affects over 10 million Americans, is often painful, and can drastically hinder your quality of life. If TMJ is getting the best of you, schedule a visit with Dr. Rosita Hamidi, Dr. Ankur Dahiya, or Dr. Mayra Wong at Houston-based Smile Time Dental to learn more about TMJ treatment options. You can also book an appointment online using the website.
TMJ Q & A
What is TMJ?

TMJ, otherwise known as temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder, is a condition that causes dysfunction and pain in and around your jaw joint, including jaw muscles that control movement. Common symptoms of TMJ include: 

Ear pain
Jaw stiffness
Chronic headaches
Aching in your face or neck
Locking or popping in your jaw
Difficulty or pain while chewing
Tenderness or pain near your jaw

The headaches and other pain caused by TMJ can hinder your quality of life, which is why treatment is so important.

What Causes TMJ?

Sometimes you’ll have TMJ with no known cause, but certain factors increase your risk for developing this chronic health condition. Common causes of TMJ include:

Misalignment
Jaw dislocation
Jaw joint disk erosion
Connective tissue diseases
Jaw joint damage from trauma
Damage of jaw joint cartilage
Grinding or clenching of your teeth
Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis

The headaches and other pain caused by TMJ can hinder your quality of life, which is why treatment is so important.

How Is TMJ Diagnosed?
The dental team at Smile Time Dental diagnoses TMJ by noting your symptoms and medical history, and conducting a thorough dental examination. Dr. Hamidi, Dr. Dahiya, or Dr. Wong checks for signs of TMJ – such as popping sounds when opening and closing your mouth – and may order imaging tests. These tests often include X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
How Is TMJ Treated?
If you have TMJ, your dentist works with you to come up with the treatment option that best meets your needs. Typically, less is more, which is why the team of dentists at Smile Time Dental usually recommend the least invasive option first. Common treatments for TMJ include:

Jaw injections
Physical therapy
Ice or heat packs
Jaw strengthening exercises
Over-the-counter pain medications
Arthrocentesis (draining joint fluid)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
Relaxation exercises (this helps with headaches too)
Wearing a stabilization splint (night guard) at night

Dr. Hamidi and the team at Smile Time Dental find a TMJ treatment you’re most comfortable with, or may suggest several treatment strategies. You can also try eating softer foods, avoiding gum, and steering clear of nail biting to reduce TMJ symptoms.

When you’re ready to ease TMJ pain, call Smile Time Dental today or book an appointment online.

We Are Here To Help You

We happily serve the residents of Memorial City, Hedwig Village, Valley Oaks, Galleria, Katy, Sealy, Cypress, Spring, and surrounding areas.
Skip to content