The temporomandibular joint or "TMJ" is the jaw joint which is located right in front of the ear canal on both sides of the head. It is unique in that the mandible or lower jaw has two joints that function against the base of the skull. If you place your finger tips lightly on each side of your head in front of the ears, you can feel the joints working when you open and close your mouth. Unlike other joints, this joint is unique in that it almost never gets to rest. We use our mouth almost continuously during the day and even at night while we are sleeping. If there is a problem with the "TMJ" it can really create a problem for you.

The most common signs & symptoms of "TMJ" disorders are:

Clicking sound in the jaw joint.

Grating sound in the jaw joint.

Pain in or around the jaw joint.

Facial pain.

Locking of the jaw.

Headaches.

Neck aches.

Ringing in the ears.

Fullness or a stuffy feeling in the ears.

Pain when chewing or yawning.

A change in your bite or the way your teeth fit together.

Sore teeth & tired jaws in the morning.

Worn down teeth.

There are several different things that can cause "TMJ" problems:

Trauma to the jaw like a bump or fall.

Grinding or clenching the teeth together.

Over extension of the jaw, stretching or tearing the ligaments.

Whiplash injury from a motor vehicle accident.

Systemic disease like arthritis and others.

Localized disease in the jaw joint.

Bad bites, crooked teeth or malocclusions.

Loss of teeth.

Ill fitting or worn dental appliances.

Stress and poor posture.

"TMJ" disorders are best treated early before they have a chance to deteriorate to a more serious and painful joint condition. Left untreated, surgery of the jaw joint may be the only option left with little or no relief of pain.

Dr. Thomas W. Surber and Dr. Randall A. Schmidt have been diagnosing and successfully treating more "TMJ" patients than anyone else in northwest Indiana since 1980.

If you think you or someone in your family may have a "TMJ" problem, consult the OFFICE DIRECTORY and schedule an appointment with one of our experienced doctors specializing in the "TMJ" for an examination.

In most cases the diagnosis and treatment of "TMJ" disorders are covered and payed for by your medical insurance carrier. Our experienced staff will explain and assist you in filing your medical claim.

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