TMJ and jaw pain treatment in Malad West

What are TMJ disorders?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw to the skull, just in front of the ears. Problems with these joints, or with the muscles that move the jaw, can cause pain in the jaw, face, ears or temples, clicking or grating when you open your mouth, and a jaw that feels stiff or locks.

Treatment begins with finding the cause, which can include clenching or grinding, the way the teeth meet, stress, or wear in the joint itself. Care usually starts simple and non-surgical: advice and exercises, a custom night guard or splint, and help with the habits behind it.

How TMJ problems are assessed and treated at the clinic is to be confirmed by Dr. Resham.

Signs you might need it

• Pain in the jaw, in front of the ear, or in the temples, especially on waking.
• Clicking, popping or grating when you open or close your mouth.
• A jaw that feels tired or stiff, or that sometimes locks open or shut.
• Headaches or earache with no ear problem found.
• Worn, chipped or sensitive teeth from grinding or clenching.

What happens, step by step

1. Listening and examination

   The doctor asks about your symptoms and habits, and examines the jaw joints and muscles, how far and how straight your mouth opens, and how your teeth meet.

2. Imaging if needed

   X-rays, or a CBCT scan here at the clinic, if the joint itself needs to be looked at.

3. The plan

   Most plans start simply: advice on food and habits, jaw exercises, and, where it helps, a custom-made night guard or splint. The cost is told to you in writing before anything is done.

4. Fitting a splint

   If a splint is made, it is fitted and adjusted so your bite rests evenly on it.

5. Follow-up visits

   Visits to see how the jaw is responding and to adjust the plan. Where other care would help, the doctor explains the options.

How it feels afterwards

A splint can feel bulky for the opening few nights. Jaw exercises work well done little and often. Soft food, and avoiding very wide yawns and chewing gum, can help while the jaw settles.

What decides the cost

A fee is only worked out once the doctor has examined you. It depends on:

• Whether a splint or night guard is needed, and which kind.
• How many follow-up visits are needed.
• Any imaging, such as a CBCT scan.
• The cost is told to you in writing before anything is done.