New Jersey TMJ Dentist / Treatment

Temporomandibular joint syndrome (or TMJ), commonly referred to as lockjaw or jaw popping, at any given time. The condition, caused by an improperly aligned jaw, contributes to a myriad of problems, including neck, shoulder and eye discomfort, tinnitus (ringing of the ears), and most commonly, jaw pain. According to the TMJ Association, nearly 11 million Americans suffer from TMJ.

At Princeton Prosthodontics, we specialize in a variety of TMJ treatment options, including neuromuscular dentistry, designed to alleviate and eliminate the symptoms of TMJ. Our experienced Princeton, New Jersey TMJ dentist, Dr. Michael R. Cortese, has spent significant time studying occlusal and masticatory (chewing) problems such as TMJ disorder. We’re confident we can help you.

If you have a TMJ condition, you’re not alone. At our New Jersey practice, we are committed to relieving your symptoms through comprehensive TMJ treatment. Contact Princeton Prosthodontics to schedule a TMJ evaluation and neuromuscular dentistry consultation today.

TMJ Treatment:

• What is TMJ?
• Neuromuscular Dentistry

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joints connect the jawbone to the skull. Located at the sides of the head near each ear, these joints play an essential role in eating, speaking, and making facial expressions. In fact, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most frequently used and complex joints in the body.

TMJ disorder can develop when one or both of the temporomandibular joints stop functioning properly. This may happen due to any number of causes and may result in chronic ear pain, jaw stiffness and soreness, difficulty opening the mouth, jaw popping or clicking, and headaches. Sufferers of TMJ disorder may experience either sharp pain or a dull, constant ache.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms associated with TMJ disorders will vary from person to person, depending on the unique causes of their discomfort. TMJ symptoms can include the following:

• Jaw pain. One of the most common TMJ symptoms, many patients notice a clicking, popping or grinding sound when they chew or yawn. The pain can be dull and constant or sharp and sporadic.
• Headaches. Moderate to severe headaches are common TMJ symptoms.
• Ear pain. Because the TMJ are located next to the ears, radiating pain from the affected joint may seem like it is originating from the ears.
• Tooth pain. TMJ is most often linked to patients who clench or grind their teeth routinely. The pressure absorbed by the teeth and jaw joints can cause severe pain in both areas.

Neuromuscular Dentistry: TMJ Treatment

Simply put, neuromuscular dentistry places the jaw into its optimal position, relieving the symptoms associated with TMJ. The primary element which sets neuromuscular dentistry apart from traditional dentistry is that neuromuscular dentistry considers the nerves and muscles and the correct positioning of the jaw, whereas traditional dentistry focuses on just the teeth and joints.

The result is a more complete approach which can resolve painful conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders and provide more comfortable and longer lasting solutions to other dental needs such as dentures and smile makeovers.

Our New Jersey TMJ and neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Cortese, understands the necessity for considering the power source (muscles) and the controls (nerves) which create the movement, pressures, and function of the mouth when correcting TMJ disorder. To learn more, contact Princeton Prosthodontics today and schedule a free consultation.

Contact Our Princeton, New Jersey TMJ Dentist

Tired of living with TMJ pain? Our New Jersey neuromuscular dentistry practice can help. TMJ dentist Michael Cortese can alleviate and eliminate your discomfort.

Back to top