TMJ & TMD Treatment in Granite Bay, CA

What Is Neuromuscular Dentistry?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) refers to a group of related disorders that result from problems with the jaw or jaw joint, or the facial muscles involved in jaw movement. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet; it enables the jaw to move and function normally, and is one of the body’s most frequently used joints. Talking, yawning, chewing and swallowing all involve the TMJ. For the TMJ to function properly, the muscles, ligaments and bones involved in its movement must be working properly; any conditions that prevent them from doing so may cause TMD.

Types Of TMD

TMDs are usually categorized in one of three ways:

Muscle Disorders

Muscle disorders cause pain and discomfort (myofacial pain) in the muscles surrounding the jaw joint, and in the muscles of the shoulder and neck. This is the most common type of TMD.

Joint-Derangement Disorders

Joint-derangement disorders are structural, as opposed to muscular, conditions. They can be caused by injury to the lower jaw; wear on the joint, such as from bruxism; severe malocclusion; repeated excessive jaw movements; or the dislocation or displacement of the articular disc, which is a component of the TMJ.

Degenerative/Inflammatory Joint Disorders

The overuse or aging of the joint can cause degeneration and/or inflammation. This may be a result of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or a perforated TMJ disc.

A patient may experience one or more of these disorders at the same time.

What causes TMD is not clear, but symptoms are believed to develop from problems with the jaw muscles or with the joint itself. TMD may be the result of many factors, including the following:

  • Trauma to the head or neck
  • Clenching or grinding of the teeth
  • Bad “bite” or missing teeth
  • Arthritis
  • Malalignment of the upper and lower jaws

Stress may also play a role in developing TMD because it can lead to tightening of jaw muscles and clenching of teeth.

TMDs can cause discomfort and pain that is constant or intermittent, with symptoms that can include:

  • Chronic pain in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders
  • Chronic pain in or around the ear
  • Limited ability to open the mouth wide
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Uncomfortable “bite”
  • Swelling on one or both sides of the face
  • Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
  • Headaches and neck aches

Symptoms vary from being barely noticeable to causing seriously debilitating pain. It is also possible that the above symptoms have causes other than TMD.

In order to diagnose TMD, a physical examination, as well as the following tests, may be performed:

  • Clench test
  • X-rays
  • CT scan or MRI scan
  • Computer bite analysis
  • Joint-vibration analysis

Many tests for diagnosing TMD are designed to rule out other conditions that may be causing the same symptoms.

Treatment for TMD depends on the severity of the condition, and may include:

  • Stress-reduction exercises
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Low-level-laser therapy
  • Mouth protectors to prevent teeth-grinding
  • Changing diet to soft foods
  • Heat or ice packs
  • Avoidance of extreme jaw movements

More extensive corrective treatments include injections for pain relief. If nonsurgical treatment is unsuccessful or if there is joint damage, surgery may be needed. Types of surgery performed for TMD include:

  • Arthrocentesis
  • Arthroscopy
  • Open joint surgery

Although TMD can be a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment.

Patient Testimonials

Satinderjit Singh
Satinderjit Singh
2023-09-20
I highly recommend Dr. Mahal for all your family’s dental needs. She is a skilled and experienced dentist who is also incredibly kind .
Karen Norm Biane
Karen Norm Biane
2023-09-19
I always leave Dr. Mahal’s office with a clean, fresh smile. Dr. Mahal is very attentive to my dental needs. She listens carefully to concerns, and makes appropriate recommendations for my care. She is always current on current techniques and technology. The office has a calm, soothing effect. I highly recommend Dr. Mahal.
Carol George
Carol George
2023-09-14
Dr. Mahal’s dental practice at Granite Bay Dental Spa is exceptional! For me, she replaced five veneers and a crown on my six, front, top teeth. I couldn’t be more thrilled with my new, brighter smile. The color, texture, and quality of the enamel are top-notch. And my teeth look so very natural. Dr. Mahal is a highly skilled dentist who is efficient, extremely bright, fast and versed in the latest dental technology and innovations. On top of all these qualities, she is warm, friendly, and compassionate. Her staff is caring, professional, and always cheerful. Thank you so much Dr. Mahal and staff! You all make going to the dentist a positive experience with superior outcomes.
Clint Payne
Clint Payne
2023-09-13
For the past 20 years, I have been a loyal patient, first with Dr. Kenneth Marti and now with Dr. Mahal. My journey with Dr. Marti was always outstanding, and since Dr. Mahal took over, the standard of care and professionalism has risen even higher. Although I reside in Oregon, I choose Dr. Mahal’s practice over local dental clinics. I frequently travel to the area every other month for family visits, making my dental appointments easily manageable. Throughout my time as a patient, I’ve been fortunate to require only cleanings and cavity treatments. While I can’t comment on the entirety of their services, I deeply value their commitment to using cutting-edge equipment, maintaining a pristine facility, and fostering a warm, welcoming environment. Such qualities are rare gems nowadays, making each of my visits something to look forward to. Would recommend, and 5 Stars for me!
jayne frazelle
jayne frazelle
2023-08-03
Dr. Mahal is knowledgeable, personable and professional. Her staff is friendly and accommodating. I highly recommend going to see her.
Christy D'Ambrosio
Christy D’Ambrosio
2023-06-30
I love the new office! It’s welcoming, friendly, & relaxing. The staff is friendly and helpful, and Dr. Mahal treats everyone like family. Thank you Dr. Mahal!