TMJ –

The hinge connecting the upper and lower jaws is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It’s capable of a wide range of motion: up and down, back and forth, side to side. It fulfills a number of vital functions around eating, speaking, and breathing. With that in mind, any disorder or problem with that joint can have a serious negative impact on overall health and well-being.

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint disorder, the fancy medical term for a malfunction of the jaw hinge joint. This can take a variety of forms, but some of the most common symptoms include:

Headaches/migraines, earaches, and pain and pressure behind the eyes
A clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth
Pain while yawning, opening the mouth widely, or chewing
Jaws that “get stuck,” or lock up
Tenderness of the jaw or facial muscles
A sudden change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together when the mouth is opened and closed

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us. It’s possible that you have TMJ or another disorder and that you’ll need treatment for it. Treatment can take a variety of forms, depending on the cause of your TMJ. Sometimes the root cause is stress, and various relaxation techniques or counseling might be in order. Sometimes TMJ is caused by teeth grinding, and your dentist may fit you with a mouthpiece to wear at night in order to prevent that. If the cause is muscle tension, your dentist may suggest a muscle relaxant or the application of mild heat to loosen the muscles involved. In some cases the cause of TMJ may be a physical disorder or misalignment of the jaw. In that case surgery may be required, and your dentist will explain what the correct procedure is and what it entails when that time comes.

TMJ can cause so many problems and so much discomfort, but it’s generally treatable. If you have any of the above symptoms, please contact your dentist and begin pursuing the right course of action for you.

What Clients Are Saying About Tim Burgiss D.D.S.

“I couldn’t begin to remember how many dentists there were due to education, moves, etc. I do know that most of them stated that my mouth was a challenge. When I got Dr. Burgiss to be my dentist, he knew ahead of time that there was lots to be done in my mouth, and he did it. No one has ever numbed my gums as efficiently as he does. He has changed my looks and bite considerably for the better. To make things even better, the staff in his office is outstanding. They are cheerful and competent people who are fun to be around. To conclude my remarks, I may have to drive a little to get to his office but it is worth every mile.”

- B.E.

“When our family goes to see Dr. Burgiss it’s not like going to see “the dentist” it’s like a continuation of our family. When you walk in the door right away there is a friendly face with a caring smile to welcome you. Our family trusts Dr. Burgiss and his staff. We know that his work is always going to be the best quality because unlike other dentists that we have been to, there is not an attitude of “let’s get it done.” Instead, Dr. Burgiss has the attitude of “let’s get it right!” Our family constantly recommends Dr. Burgiss because we want other people to know that we found a dentist who is so good, dedicated, diligent, and caring, that we actually look forward to going to the dentist.”

- M. S. & J.

“You and Your staff are amazing. When I walk in the door, it is like going into another world. The office bubbles with enthusiasm for me and the incredibly warm welcome is always present. The place pulsates with care and love for me. Always I am greeted with the most important person in the world. The staff expresses interest in my life and celebrates with me any good little thing going in my favor. All of you are like cheerleaders in my life. The music you have filtered through the office is always a reminder of who and what truly matters in this life. With all of this surrounding me during a treatment, how could I ever dread coming to a “dentist’s office”. You offer a “time out” from the ordinary and restoration in me far beyond my dental health”

- S.B.

“Dr. Burgiss has been my dentist for the past ten years and he and his staff have seen me through many procedures from cleanings to replacement of old restorations and even TMJ. Without exception, every visit has been a pleasant experience. I observed Dr. Burgiss’ office for a year as their UPS delivery person before becoming his patient. During this time, I marveled at the harmonious atmosphere there. Now, many years later, after many dental procedures, I still marvel at the friendly and professional way I am treated on each and every visit. Never, not even once, have I wished for anything different from the results I received.”

- C.

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Understanding TMJ

What Clients Are Saying About Tim Burgiss D.D.S.