TMJ DISORDER

The jaw joint is a complex joint, involving many muscles and many people experience pain in and around the joint.  The pain may be persistent and result in headaches or muscle spasms in the neck, back or shoulders.  A bad bite, grinding or clenching of the teeth can cause the muscles that control the jaw to be overworked and go into spasm.  An appliance can be made to wear over the teeth that will allow the muscles to rest and reduce the symptoms.  Various medications can also help reduce the pain, as well as massage of the muscles, moist heat and even physical therapy.