TMJ Exams

TMJ Exams services offered in South Tampa, Tampa, FL

If you’re one of the millions of Americans dealing with face and jaw pain, stiffness, and difficulty chewing associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, the team at OneSource Dental of South Tampa in Tampa, Florida can help. They offer thorough TMJ exams that provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment solutions that fit your needs, delivered in a welcoming patient-friendly environment. Schedule a visit today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.

TMJ Exams Q&A

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sits at the front of the ear and connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull’s temporal bones. The joints work as a unit, allowing you to move your jaw side to side or up and down.

TMJ disorders affect the joint’s function, causing symptoms that may occur in one or both joints, including:

Generalized jaw pain or tenderness
Pain centered at the affected joint
The sensation of your jaw locking
Pain with chewing
Aching ear pain
Grating sensation or clicking sounds when you open or close your mouth
Head pain centered around or above the ears

Pain associated with TMJ disorders might come and go initially, range from mild to severe, and become persistent over time.

What causes TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorders occur when the joint(s) move out of alignment. Factors that may increase your risk of developing a TMJ disorder include:

Jaw injuries
Osteoarthritis
Joint dislocation
Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases
Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching (bruxism)

Habits like excessive gum chewing or frequently eating hard foods can also contribute to TMJ pain.

What’s included in TMJ exams?

To diagnose TMJ disorder, your provider at OneSource Dental of South Tampa first reviews your symptoms and dental history. Your dentist then examines your teeth and bite alignment and evaluates your jaw motion while monitoring for clicking, popping, stiffness, and tenderness. TMJ exams include X-rays to determine the type and severity of a TMJ disorder.

How do you treat TMJ disorders?

Your OneSource Dental provider may recommend a variety of treatments for TMJ disorder, including:

Lifestyle changes

Eliminating gum chewing, including softer foods in your diet, and reducing stress to prevent jaw clenching can relieve TMJ symptoms.

Jaw exercises

Various exercises and stretches to strengthen and improve the flexibility of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments supporting the TMJ can reduce pain and prevent future problems.