The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone (the bone at the side of the head). The flexibility of these joints enables a person to move their jaw up and down smoothly. During this movement, the rounded ends of the lower jaw, called condyles, glide along with the joint socket of the temporal bone. For its smooth movement, a soft disc lies between the condyle and the temporal bone and absorbs shocks to the jaw joint from chewing and other movements.
TMJ disorders (TMD) cause dysfunction and pain in the face, teeth, and jaw. Dr. Rebecca Benedict and our dental team offer restorative dental treatments to relieve pressure on the TMJ and restore comfort to patients’ smiles.
What Are Common Signs of TMD?
Temporomandibular joint disorders are conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the chewing muscles that control up-and-down jaw movement. A person suffering may experience any of the following:
- Myofascial pain: Discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function.
- Internal derangement of the joint: A displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle.
- Arthritis: A group of degenerative and inflammatory joint disorders that can affect the temporomandibular joint.
Treating TMJ Disorders in Tampa, FL
The majority of TMJ disorders improve with time and ultimately disappear. However, in some instances, the symptoms may continue or recur from time to time. We start with conservative, non-invasive care. Our goal is to find relief for your pain without surgery whenever possible. Some of the ways to treat TMJ disorders are:
- Physical exercises and lifestyle changes: Simple physical activities and small lifestyle changes can fix most TMJ disorder cases. One should also consume soft foods until the symptoms recede, not chew gum, and avoid teeth grinding and clenching. Physical therapy can help relieve tension in the face and body, minimizing TMD symptoms.
- Botox Therapy: Botox injections can treat chronic TMJ disorders. A cosmetic specialist can inject Botox into the facial muscles to keep them relaxed and alleviate pain. These injections also treat headaches due to teeth grinding, clenching, and stress.
- Occlusal Adjustments: We can modify the bite and tooth surfaces to correct crooked teeth or poor bites. Invisalign and braces are great orthodontic options that adjust the bite. Sometimes, straightening teeth can help alleviate TMD, as patients with crooked teeth are more likely to develop TMJ symptoms.
- Occlusal Guards: Wearing an oral appliance while sleeping or during the day helps alleviate TMJ pressure from bruxism. These night guards also prevent wear or damage to the natural tooth enamel and protect any dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges. Over time, teeth clenching and grinding can wear down the natural tooth enamel. For patients with missing teeth, this uneven pressure can complicate future dental implant treatment by affecting the bite alignment.
- Surgery: We only advise oral surgery if TMD is caused by actual harm to the joint or the muscles surrounding it. In such severe cases, an oral surgeon will replace the joint.
What to Expect at Your TMJ Evaluation
During a TMJ appointment, we make it simple and stress-free:
- Open conversation: Dr. Benedict will listen to your symptoms, when they occur, and how they impact your daily life.
- Comprehensive Exam: We’ll evaluate your jaw’s range of motion, listen for clicking/popping, and palpate the muscles around your jaw, head, and neck to identify tender areas.
- Bite & Posture Analysis: We’ll assess how your teeth come together and look for signs of clenching or grinding. Posture can also play a significant role in TMJ disorders.
- Personalized Diagnosis: We’ll explain our findings in plain English and outline a custom treatment plan designed to provide lasting relief, not just a temporary fix.
Patient Review
TMJ Treatment FAQs: Answers from a Tampa Dentist
Can TMJ disorders cause headaches and neck pain?
Yes, absolutely. Jaw muscle tension is one of the most common and overlooked causes of chronic tension headaches and migraines. When your jaw muscles are overworked from clenching or grinding, that tension radiates upward into your temples and forehead and downward into your neck and shoulders. Many patients come to us after years of treating “tension headaches” with medication, only to find that their jaw was the root cause all along.
Do I need surgery for TMJ?
Almost never. The vast majority of patients find significant relief with conservative, non-invasive treatments. At Historic Hyde Park Dentistry, we always start with the least invasive approach first. It’s typically a combination of patient education, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy exercises, and a custom-fitted oral appliance (night guard).
We only consider surgical intervention in the most severe cases where there is actual physical damage to the joint itself. Even then, we would refer you to a trusted oral surgeon.
How do I know if I need a night guard for TMJ?
If you wake up with a sore jaw, frequent headaches, or notice that your teeth look flatter or more worn than they used to, you’re likely grinding or clenching your teeth at night. A custom-fitted night guard is often the first line of defense.
A custom guard from Dr. Benedict is made from precise impressions of your teeth. It’s designed not just to protect your enamel from wear, but to position your jaw in a more relaxed, comfortable position while you sleep. It actively reduces the muscle tension that causes TMJ pain.
Can stress really cause TMJ disorders?
Yes. Stress is one of the biggest contributors to TMJ disorders. Many people unconsciously clench their jaw or grind their teeth when they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or even just deeply focused. Over time, this constant muscle tension strains the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement.
While we can’t eliminate stress from your life, we can help break the cycle of clenching and grinding with night guards and relaxation exercises to relax the overactive muscles.
Does insurance cover TMJ treatment in Tampa?
Coverage varies widely depending on your specific plan. Some medical insurance plans cover TMJ disorders because they are considered medical conditions affecting the jaw joint and muscles. Other plans may cover portions through dental benefits, especially for oral appliances like night guards.
Our team at Historic Hyde Park Dentistry is experienced in navigating both medical and dental insurance. Before you start treatment, we’ll verify your benefits and explain your expected out-of-pocket costs. No surprises.
How long does TMJ treatment take to work?
It depends on the severity of your condition and the treatment approach, but many patients begin to feel relief within just a few weeks. Night guards often provide immediate protection for your teeth and can reduce morning jaw soreness within days. For more complex cases involving muscle tension or bite issues, you may notice gradual improvement over 2 to 3 months.
The goal is always to find lasting relief, not just a temporary fix. During your consultation, Dr. Benedict will give you a realistic timeline based on your specific diagnosis and treatment plan.
Why Tampa Patients Trust Dr. Benedict for TMJ Relief
When you choose Historic Hyde Park Dentistry, you’re getting care from a dentist with advanced training in the complex relationship between your bite, your jaw, and your overall health.
- Impressive Credentials: Dr. Benedict is the Immediate Past President of the Tampa Bay Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).
- Internationally Published Author: Her published research on dental biomaterials means she understands the science behind the treatments that will relieve your pain.
- A Holistic, Tampa-Based Approach: As a Hyde Park resident herself, Dr. Benedict provides patient-centered care that focuses on finding the root cause of your TMJ pain, not just managing the symptoms.
Do you have pain in your jaw or temples? Do you think you may have TMD? Call Dr. Rebecca Benedict at 813-733-6981 for TMD treatment today, or request a dental visit online at any time.