TMJ

Does your jaw pop when you chew or talk (either with or without pain)? Maybe your jaw is locked, opened or closed. TMJ could be the cause.

TMJ could be causing swelling in the jaw or cheek areas, problems opening your mouth, pain radiating through the face, neck, or shoulders, or even a general tired feeling in the face.

TMJ is the abbreviation for temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge that connects the temporal bones of the skull to the jaw. In dentistry, it is also a generic term used for problems with the TMJ. The TMJ is the hinge that allows the jaw to move side to side, up, and down. Without that hinge, it would be impossible to talk, chew, or yawn.

Problems with the TMJ should be called TMD or temporomandibular disorder. A TMD would be any condition that causes severe discomfort or pain in the jaw. Pain can be on both sides of the face or just one side, and the pain can last for many years or just a few days. TMD is more common in women from the ages of 20 to 40 years old.

Dr. Keyes can diagnose TMD and determine whether it is being caused by arthritis, stress, disc movement between the socket and ball of the joint, teeth clenching, or some other cause. After an accurate diagnosis, Dr. Keyes can treat the TMD and relieve the pain.

Call 360-675-4366 today to make an appointment.