TMJ Questions

Serving Portland, Lake Oswego, & West Linn, Oregon

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

Some of the most common include:

• Tooth grinding, or bruxism, especially during sleep
• Excess tooth wear
• Popping and clicking of the jaw
• Loss of the full range of jaw motion
• Headaches, neck aches, and migraines
• Teeth that become loose or even fall out
• Stuffiness or ringing in the ears

If my TMJ isn't bothering me now, can I safely ignore it?

No. Even a mild case of TMJ can get worse. We recommend that you have your symptoms evaluated and your condition accurately diagnosed by a qualified neuromuscular dentist as soon as possible in order to minimize and prevent further damage.

Are there treatments for TMD?

Yes. We offer a range of TMD treatments, for both the jaw muscles and any tooth damage caused by TMD.

What causes jaw joint problems?

They can be caused by improperly-done dental work, injury to the head, chronic tooth grinding (which can also be a symptom), and developmental or genetic factors. The causes are not fully understood.

Who is most at risk for TMJ?

Anyone can be at risk for TMJ. Anything which causes tooth misalignment, such as nighttime tooth grinding, which causes injury to the jaw joint itself, can cause TMJ.

What does treatment consist of?

Treatment can be as simple as wearing a night-time orthotic made from a computerized scan of your bite, or as extensive as reconstructing your bite with crowns, in conjunction with visits to an upper cervical chiropractor or physical therapist.

How long does treatment take?

This depends entirely on the type of problem you have, and what is causing it. In some cases, your TMD can be treated in as little as one or two dental visits. However, sometimes treatment can take significantly longer.

Other questions?
Please call or email us today at our office serving Portland, Oregon to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Wendling.

(503)636-4069
340 Oswego Pointe Dr, Ste 208
Lake Oswego, OR 97034