TMJ Disorder Treatment in Skokie, IL
Jaw pain, chronic headaches, clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth, difficulty chewing — these are all common signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, a condition that affects the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. At CityView Family Dentistry, Dr. Patrick C. Hann offers comprehensive TMJ evaluation and treatment to help patients find relief and restore normal jaw function.
The temporomandibular joints are the two joints on either side of your head that connect the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. When these joints, along with the surrounding muscles and ligaments, are not functioning correctly, a range of painful and disruptive symptoms can develop — affecting not just your jaw but your entire quality of life.
Request an AppointmentSymptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can present with a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
- Aching pain in or around the ear
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint during movement
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide or locking of the jaw
- Difficulty or discomfort chewing
- Facial fatigue or a tired sensation in the jaw muscles
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Tooth sensitivity or pain without apparent dental cause
Because many of these symptoms overlap with other conditions, TMJ disorder is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. A thorough evaluation by Dr. Hann is the first step toward identifying whether TMJ is the source of your discomfort.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can have multiple contributing factors, including:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching — often during sleep
- Bite misalignment (malocclusion)
- Jaw injuries or trauma
- Arthritis affecting the joint
- Stress-related muscle tension in the jaw and neck
- Displacement of the disc within the joint
TMJ Treatment Options at CityView Family Dentistry
Treatment for TMJ disorder is highly individualized. After a thorough examination — which may include digital X-rays and a review of your symptoms and medical history — Dr. Hann will recommend the most appropriate treatment approach for your case. Options may include:
- Custom night guards or oral splints: Worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding and reduce the load on the temporomandibular joints
- Bite adjustment: Reshaping or restoring teeth to improve bite alignment and reduce strain on the jaw joints
- Physical therapy exercises: Including the Rocobado TMJ exercises, which are specifically designed to reduce joint inflammation, restore proper jaw mechanics, and relieve muscle tension
- Lifestyle and habit modifications: Including stress reduction techniques and dietary adjustments to reduce jaw strain
- Orthodontic treatment: In cases where bite misalignment is a primary contributor, functional orthodontics may be recommended
For many patients, a combination of approaches provides the best long-term relief. Call (773) 631-5788 to schedule your TMJ evaluation at CityView Family Dentistry in Skokie, IL.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder (also called TMD) refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints and surrounding muscles, causing jaw pain, headaches, clicking sounds, and other symptoms.
What causes TMJ disorder?
Common causes include teeth grinding, bite misalignment, jaw trauma, arthritis, and muscle tension from stress. Often, multiple factors contribute to the condition.
How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?
Dr. Hann performs a thorough clinical examination, reviewing your symptoms, jaw range of motion, bite alignment, and imaging as needed to assess the joints and surrounding structures.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
Mild cases sometimes resolve with rest and lifestyle changes. However, most patients benefit from professional treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening and to address the underlying cause.
What is a night guard, and does it help with TMJ?
A custom night guard is a protective oral appliance worn during sleep that cushions the teeth and jaw joints from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching. It is one of the most common first-line treatments for TMJ disorder.
Are there exercises that help with TMJ pain?
Yes. Dr. Hann recommends the Rocobado TMJ exercises for many patients. These targeted exercises are designed to reduce joint inflammation, restore proper jaw mechanics, and relieve surrounding muscle tension.
How do I get started with TMJ treatment at CityView Family Dentistry?
Call CityView Family Dentistry at (773) 631-5788 to schedule a comprehensive TMJ evaluation. Dr. Hann will assess your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to help relieve your pain.