Temporomandibular joint. That’s your jaw joint, but its acronym, TMJ, has become the short-hand term for problems associated with it. Clinically, it’s called TMJ Syndrome or Disorder, and often presents itself as a popping sound and sensation near the jaw joint.
TMJ Disorder symptoms take many forms, such as headaches, earaches, stuffiness, ringing in the ears, dizziness, numbness in fingers and arms, limited movement or locking of the jaw, and pain of many types (behind the eyes, in the face, back, neck or shoulders). In many cases, worn or cracked teeth are the only symptoms and pain does not occur until the disorder has advanced.
In order to determine the best course of TMD treatment, an accurate diagnosis is imperative. Consult with Dr. Toomey to determine if you are suffering from TMJ Syndrome. Many times, all that’s needed is a simple adjustment to your bite (the way your teeth come together), or a small, specialized mouthpiece that corrects the way your jaw joint closes and allows it to rest while you sleep. TMJ Syndrome treatment in Baltimore doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and we can help you get back to a life without pain.
BITE FX
At Toomey Dentistry, we have advanced training in TMJ Disorders. We use a unique and specialized presentation program called BiteFX™, that uses friendly animations to explain problems in a way that makes sense. With BiteFX, our patients quickly understand complicated concepts that were previously difficult to explain. Dr. Toomey will use your own photos and x-rays, along with BiteFX, to help you to understand the best treatment options for you.
Jaw soreness, headaches, waking up tired, grinding, even hearing problems… these are just a few of the basic symptoms of bite problems. Often, these patients also have receding gums, wear marks on chewing surfaces and cracked teeth. Many patients are unaware that there is any problem at all. Fortunately, a great number of those who suffer from these common symptoms can be easily diagnosed and helped.
Some remarks about TMJ Treatment from our patients:
In many dental practices, the patient would be told that they simply grind their teeth and would be prescribed a night guard. Some would get better, but most became frustrated at their problem not truly getting fixed. Night guards are like aspirin for a headache. Unless the root of the problem is revealed, the symptoms will go on and on.
Dr. Toomey will evaluate your bite to determine if your symptoms are dental-related or not. In fact, a bite evaluation is simple, painless and part of our regular dental exam. After this bite evaluation, Dr. Toomey might recommend that you be measured and evaluated in greater detail to correct the problem permanently. After all, we’re dedicated to improving our patients’ lives by improving their comfort, sleep and longevity of their natural teeth.
CALL TOOMEY DENTISTRY TODAY!
410.823.6000
BITE EQUILIBRATION PATIENTS
“I’ve had the same dentist for my entire life, he told me I had TMJ issues, but never treated it or sent me to someone who could. As I sit here in Dr. Toomey’s office, after my 3rd equilibration appointment, I’m having a moment of gratitude because my jaw has never felt better!”
-Terri, age 47
“I’m still in the middle of treatment, but my results have been dramatic already! In particular, less popping and less discomfort when eating.”
-Retha, age 39
“I’m sleeping much better with my guard- it’s a noticeable difference in my restfulness the next day. Unfortunately for my wife, I now also sleep thru our one year old’s cries at night!”
-Jason, age 35
“I wish I could have a whole paragraph to say how much of a difference it has made for me. I had a lot of headaches, jaw and ear pain. After two adjustments, I could feel immediate relief and change in my jaw muscles. I have tried everything else and this was truly like a miracle.”
-Sonnie, age 40
“Tell Dr.T my TMJ’s are doing great and I’ll see him in a few weeks! Thank Dr.T and the rest of the staff. If you knew how bad my joints were, you wouldn’t believe the results I’ve gotten!”
-Kim, age 40
“Hello, Dr. Toomey, like you said, the tooth that was hurting is much better now. The pain is almost non-existent after 4 days. In the morning, the jaw is not tense or stiff, and the end of the workday, I do not have tightness in the jaw like I used to. The pain I reported, associated with chewing on my right side, is also much better. As you can see, I am very satisfied with my improvement since I started wearing the new mouth guard. If anything changes, I will keep you posted. Thanks again!”
-Deborah, age 38
“I called Dr. Toomey’s office the morning after wearing my new B-Splint, to tell them how happy I was with my results. I had a clicking jaw, which had caused so much pain, that I could not fully open my mouth without it hurting. I am so pleased with how I feel already!”
-Debbie, age 40
“I no longer grind my teeth at night. Thank you, Dr. Toomey!”
-Sherry, age 64
“I used to travel with Orajel (for my sore tooth) and Imitrex (for my migraines) at all times. I can’t tell you the last time I’ve used either! It’s very exciting results!”
-Barbara, age 52
“My massage therapist noticed a big difference in my facial, head and neck muscles!”
-Marcia, age 61