TMJ refers to the jaw joints just in front of your ears—anatomically the temporo- (the side of the head bone that also houses your hearing and balancing mechanisms)-mandibular (the lower jaw) joint. Therefore, one half of the joint involves the jaws, teeth and face, and the other half the cranial base and head. That is why symptoms of this disorder are so varied, extensive and significant.

Proper diagnosis is critical to make sure you receive treatment for your particular condition. We offer neuromuscular dentistry, which can provide you just that-proper diagnosis and treatment for TMJ. Andrew G. Mortensen, DDS, Inc., we will only recommend treatment after conducting a thorough health history and clinical exam, taking appropriate X-rays, and perhaps confirming the condition through other diagnostic tests. We may prescribe a multiple-phase treatment plan.

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.

The Aqualizer™ provides the indispensable road map for your future treatment by getting at the root causes of TMJ disorders. It is important to understand that the goal of TMD treatment is to minimize TMJ pain and symptoms and return the body to functional balance. The goal of the Aqualizer™ is to ensure that the bite and body are balanced in a dynamic state. What the Aqualizer™ relieves is stress on the TMJ area.

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.

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.

Yes. First, learn all you can about your illness by reading books, going to lectures and talking to your doctor. Get support from others who also have the illness. The Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association is a good place to look for a support group in your area. In these groups, you can hear how others face the challenges of life and manage their mood and treatment medications. For helpful hints for managing your illness, see Coping With Bipolar Disorder.

Bipolar disorder (commonly referred to as manic-depression) is a major affective disorder in which an individual alternates between states of deep depression and extreme euphoria (mania).