TMJ

image of man in pain pressing his fingers against his jaw

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. Up to 10 million people suffer from painful temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Symptoms include pain in the face and neck, locked jaw or limited jaw movement, painful clicking when moving the mouth, dizziness, difficulty chewing or swallowing and a change in the way the teeth fit together. TMD is about four times more common in women than men.

Causes

TMD has many causes, some physical, some emotional. A jaw injury, such as one caused by a car accident or being hit hard by a ball, can lead to TMD. Degenerative joint disease is another leading physical cause of TMD.

Emotional stress can cause behaviors that lead to TMD, such as clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth.

Conventional Treatment

You can manage TMD through medications or lifestyle interventions. Your doctor may recommend muscle relaxants or pain relievers. Certain types of antidepressants also relieve pain. If you clench your teeth at night, aggravating your TMD pain, your doctor might prescribe a sedative. These medications bring along a variety of side effects.

Other interventions don’t require drugs. Rest your jaws by eating soup or soft food. Avoid chewing gum. Firm or soft bite guards sometimes relieve pain, and keep you from grinding your teeth at night. Ice packs or moist heat can help. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen and stretch your jaw muscles.

If stress and anxiety are the cause of your TMD, try relaxation techniques. Mindfulness meditation, acupuncture, biofeedback, talking to a counselor or massage might help.

In extreme cases, some doctors recommend surgery to repair this joint.

Chiropractic Care and TMJ

Some patients with TMD find relief through chiropractic care. A chiropractor can manipulate your neck and jaw to improve alignment and relax muscle tension. Many chiropractors will also recommend special exercises, hot and cold treatment and other non-pharmaceutical interventions. Your chiropractor might team up with your dentist to provide the best care.

If you’re suffering from TMD, call us today so we can help ease your jaw pain.

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Office Hours

Saturdays are by appointment only

Lawrenceville Office

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

6:00 am-8:00 pm

Thursday:

6:00 am-8:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "Amazing!

    Dr. Meanor is a lifesaver! I have had several car accidents, hit the broad side and hurt my neck. I have been living with pain for years! Thanks to her, she has worked on my neck and reduced the stress and lessened the pain. I won't go to anyone else! And, all this without meds, which I appreciate.

    You will love her!!!"
    Linda A.
  • "Worth the extra travel

    Dr. Meanor has been so helpful that I followed her from one practice to another. Despite having to drive a distance, the relief I get from my adjustments makes it worth the trip. She has been able to bring relief to areas that other chiropractors have been unable to do. I highly recommend her!"
    Michelle C.
  • "Quick and Effective

    Dr. Sarah Meanor is an extremely talented chiropractor. I injured my shoulder weight-lifting years ago, and I have seen one other chiropractor who was able to relieve my pain, but only very temporarily; I would have to see him every two weeks. However, Sarah adjusted my shoulder in three visits, and the results seem permanent - 6 months and counting. It is amazing - I have had no pain since!"
    Richard O.