The “Temporomandibular Joint,” more commonly referred to as the “jaw joint,” assists in the basic opening and closing movements of the jaw.A breakdown of this joint, and /or the muscles associated with it , is fairly common to varying  degrees.  Symptoms that might be associated with this breakdown might include clicking in the joint, which may be accompanied with pain,temporal headaches, tinitis (ringing in the ear), pain on opening or chewing sticky food, or an inability to open wide.  These symptoms are most commonly seen in females with the severity increasing with age. Recently in our practice we are seeing an increase in children.  These symptoms are often brougt on with stress that may cause grinding or clenching of the teeth.

Often a bad bite or malocclusion can be the origin of the problem.  Crossbites, missing or teeth that have drifted, can cause an instabity of the joint.  Other contributing factors could be trauma to the jaw, whiplash injuries, surgeries requiring intubation, or after opening wide for a period of time with the removal of third molars.

Dr. Peden has been successfully treating TMJ problems for over twenty years  With his experince, most symptoms can be alleviated without surgery.  Usually an easy to wear mouthpiece can be constructed to stabilize the joints and eliminate pain.  Once the acute symptoms have been reduced, a longer, more permanent treatment plan can be devised.  These problems are often considered medical in nature and may be covered under your medical or dental insurance.