TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint and TMD stands for Temporomandibular Dysfunction. The causes for TMD are numerous and patients suffering from TMD or chronic facial pain should consult with a dentist immediately for treatment.

TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, a group of often painful problems affecting the jaw and chewing muscles, which may ache constantly, cyclically or erratically. Along with sinus infection, tooth decay and gum disease, TMD is often responsible for chronic facial pain -- pain in or around the ear, tender jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth, headaches and neck aches.

There are many signs and symptoms of TMD syndrome, not all necessarily present in all cases.

In most dental offices, TMJ is diagnosed based on symptoms alone. TMJ is properly diagnosed through using state-of-the-art equipment like tomographic X-rays and computer assisted electro-diagnostic tools. Dr. Wooten's office is fully equipped to diagnose and treat all types of TMJ dysfunction.

The treatment depends precisely on having an accurate diagnosis. It is not a splint for everyone. It could be palliative treatment, occlusal treatment, orthopedic treatment, orthodontic treatment or restorative treatment --- depending upon the exact nature of the problem.

The TMJ is the Temporo-Mandibular Joint where the lower jaw connects to the temporal bone of the skull. This is located right in front of the ear of both sides of the head. The joint is used every time you chew, talk, or swallow, making it one of the most frequently used joints in the human body.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder symptoms are different for a lot of people. Symptoms can range from TMJ pain, locking of the joint, facial pain and headaches. It can be bilateral or unilateral and it can lead to an uncomfortable bite and deterioration of the disc between the joint and fossae.

Although researchers have not yet pinpointed an absolute cause of TMJ, factors such as a bad bite, tooth loss, muscle deficiencies, tooth grinding and improper cranial development are linked to the development of TMJ dysfunction. TMJ health may also be adversely affected by stress, injury and arthritis.

Dr. Wooten will perform a variety of diagnostic tests before making a definitive diagnosis. If you experience a combination of any of the signs listed below, contact our experienced TMJ dentist for a personalized appointment. For more information on our smile brightening services, call Dr. David R. Wooten today in Baytown. We'll find the perfect smile solution for your individual needs.

The treatment depends on the diagnosis. A thorough medical-dental review, clinical exam, mounted diagnostic casts of your teeth and bite record, radiographs and MRI all help in the treatment. Sometimes muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety medication and an occlusal guard are used to help treat the situation.

Dental professionals agree that severe injury to the jaw area is a definite cause of TMD. A facial blow can result in a fractured jaw or a damaged disc; this in turn results in a disruption of the jaw's movement, causing pain and jaw locking. The scientific community is in disagreement as to the other causes of TMD. Most experts currently believe that it's a combination of behavioral, psychological and physical factors that brings on the symptoms associated with TMD.