TMJ Diagnosis and Treatment

content-tmjTMJ Disorder Causes and Symptoms

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is responsible for all movements of your jaw. Located on either side of the face in front of the ears, your TMJs connect your lower jaw to your skull. When these joints are imbalanced or strained, you will experience a variety of unpleasant symptoms, which include chronic pain in the jaws, face, head, ears, and neck. Other symptoms are a clicking when you open your mouth, difficulty chewing, jaws that lock, and teeth that do not meet properly when you bite. TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, can be caused by jaw injury, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis, stress, habits such as nail biting, and misaligned teeth or jaws.

Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ Dysfunction in Arlington Heights

As TMJ dysfunction is a complicated process, Dr. Brent Engelberg and his experienced staff will take a multi-faceted approach to diagnosing and treating you. After talking with you about your symptoms, performing an examination, and using the state-of-the-art Bio-JVA system to detect jaw joint friction, Dr. Engelberg will determine if TMD is causing your problems. Upon diagnosis, he may suggest lifestyle changes to help you reduce stress or eliminate bad oral habits such as gum chewing or biting pen caps. He may also fit you with a custom nightguard to wear over your teeth at night, which will keep your jaw in optimal position and help prevent clenching and grinding of your teeth. If your TMD is caused by crooked teeth or a jaw misalignment, Dr. Engelberg may recommend orthodontic therapy with Invisalign, which he conveniently provides in his office so that no separate trips to an orthodontist are necessary. Lastly, if your teeth are damaged or worn down because of chronic grinding, he can rebuild tooth structure with restorative treatments such as crowns or veneers.

For exceptional restorative and cosmetic dental care in Arlington Heights, contact Dr. Brent Engelberg today. We serve patients from Buffalo Grove, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Palatine, Wheeling, Barrington, and the surrounding areas.