TMD/TMJ Treatment

We are pleased to welcome you to Encino Dental Practice, where we provide comprehensive dental care. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can cause jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty eating. Dr. Mamaliger is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD/TMJ disorders. We offer advanced treatment in Encino, CA, to relieve your symptoms and improve the quality of your life. This page provides detailed information on TMD/TMJ, including its symptoms, causes, treatment options, importance of early intervention, and frequently asked questions.

Understanding TMD/TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), affects your temporomandibular (TMJ) joints, which connect your jawbone and skull. These joints are vital for many functions such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ dysfunction can lead to significant discomfort as well as other issues.

  • What is TMD/TMJ?

    TMD is the term used to describe conditions that cause pain or dysfunction in the muscles and jaw joint. The temporomandibular joint acts as a sliding joint, allowing the jaw to move up and down smoothly and from side to side. This joint can cause a variety of symptoms and complications.


  • TMD/TMJ: Causes and Symptoms

    A variety of factors can cause TMJ:

    • Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head may damage TMJ or surrounding muscles.
    • Arthritis: Can be inflammatory or degenerative.
    • Bruxism: The grinding or clenching of teeth. This can cause TMJ strain.
    • Misalignment: A misaligned jaw or teeth can cause stress to the TMJ.
    • Stress: High levels of stress can cause muscle tension, which in turn can exacerbate TMD symptoms.

Symptoms and Complications of TMD/TMJ

Early diagnosis and treatment of TMD are dependent on the ability to recognize symptoms. TMD, if left untreated, can cause more serious complications.

  • Common Symptoms

    • Jaw pain or tenderness; pain or tenderness in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles.
    • When chewing, you may feel discomfort or pain.
    • The jaw can become stuck in either an open or closed position.
    • When opening or closing your mouth, you may hear a clicking or popping noise.
    • Headaches: Frequent headaches, migraines.
    • Ear pain: Tinnitus (ringing or pain in the ears).
    • Facial pain: Pain in the neck, face, or shoulders.

  • Health Complications

    TMD, if left untreated, can cause several complications including:

    • Chronic Pain: Pain that is persistent and interferes with daily activities.
    • Tooth Damage: excessive wear and tear on the teeth caused by grinding or clenching.
    • Sleep Disturbances: Inability to sleep due to pain or discomfort.
    • Reduced Quality of Life: impact on eating, talking, and overall well being.

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Treatment Options for TMD/TMJ

At Encino Dental Practice, Dr. Mamaliger provides various treatment options for managing and relieving the symptoms of TMD. Our goal is to enhance your quality and comfort by improving your comfort, restoring function, and enhancing your life.

  • Non-Surgical Treatments

    • Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers can all help to reduce inflammation and pain.
    • Physical Therapy: Stretches and exercises to improve jaw range of motion and strengthen jaw muscles.
    • Mouthguards: Custom-made mouthguards and splints that relieve TMJ pressure, prevent teeth grinding, and stop teeth grinding.
    • Stress Management: Relaxation exercises, biofeedback, and counseling are all techniques that can be used to reduce tension and stress.
    • Dietary Changes: Eating soft foods and foods that are easier to chew can reduce the strain on your TMJ.

  • Dental Treatments

    • Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or other orthodontic devices are used to correct jaw misalignment and improve jaw function.
    • Occlusal Adjustments: Modifying the bit to reduce stress on TMJ.
    • Restorative Procedures: Dental work like crowns, bridges, or implants that balance the bite and support jaw functions.

  • Advanced Treatments

    • Botox Injections: Botox is used to relax muscles surrounding the TMJ. This reduces pain and improves function.
    • Trigger Point Injections: Injections that relieve pain in certain muscles.
    • Arthrocentesis: Is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces inflammation and flushes the TMJ.

  • Surgery Treatments

    Surgery may be recommended in severe cases when non-surgical treatment has not worked. Surgical options include:

    • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders.
    • Open-Joint Surgery: This is a surgical procedure to replace or repair the TMJ when there are structural or significant problems.

Early Intervention is Important

Early intervention is essential for the management of TMD. It can also prevent long-term complications. You can improve your life by addressing this condition as soon as possible.

  • Preventing Chronic Pain

    Early treatment can prevent TMD from progressing to chronic pain. Chronic pain can be difficult to manage. Early intervention can improve daily functioning and provide relief.


  • Protecting Oral Health

    Early treatment of TMD can help protect your teeth against excessive wear and damage from grinding or clenching. This will help maintain your oral health and prevent the need for extensive dental treatment.


  • Enhancing the Quality of Life

    A good treatment can improve your life significantly by improving jaw function and decreasing pain. It will also allow you to sleep, eat, and speak comfortably. Early treatment of TMD can allow you to enjoy a more active lifestyle.


  • Avoiding Surgery

    Early intervention with non-surgical treatment can reduce the need for surgery in many cases. It can reduce the risks and recovery times associated with surgery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Cause of TMD?

    TMD is caused by many factors. These include injury to the jaws, arthritis, bruxism, and misaligned or crooked teeth. TMD is often caused by a combination of factors.


  • How is TMD Diagnosed?

    TMD can be diagnosed by Dr. Mamaliger through a thorough examination. This may include a review of your medical history, a manual examination of your jaw, as well as imaging studies like x-rays and MRI to assess TMJ and the surrounding structures.


  • Can TMD Disappear on Its Own

    Some mild TMD symptoms can be resolved by self-care, such as using cold or hot compresses and avoiding chewy or hard foods. Symptoms that are persistent or severe will usually require professional treatment.


  • Does Insurance Cover TMD Treatment?

    The coverage for TMD varies according to your insurance plan. You should check with your insurer to determine what treatments are covered. Encino Dental Practice's staff can help you navigate your insurance benefits.


  • How Can I Manage TMD Symptoms at Home?

    You can manage TMD symptoms at home by using several self-care methods, such as:

    • Use cold or hot compresses on the jaw.
    • Soft foods are those that do not require much chewing.
    • Avoid chewing gum or hard foods.
    • Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress.
    • Perform gentle jaw exercises as prescribed by Dr. Mamaliger.
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