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TMJ Disorder

Living with TMJ disorder can affect your ability to speak, chew, or even rest comfortably. Our team offers effective treatment solutions that target the root cause and help restore natural jaw function.

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    Cost

    Pricing can vary based on treatment. Please contact our office for specific pricing.

    Office Fees
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    Procedure Duration

    Depending on the treatment, multiple visits may be required. This depends upon whether custom appliances, oral surgery, or another diagnosis is involved.

     

    Request Appointment
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    Comfort Measures

    TMJ treatment is usually not painful; in fact, it typically relieves pain and discomfort caused by TMJ.

    Sedation Dentistry

The Impact of TMJ

TMJ disorder impacts the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, often leading to discomfort, stiffness, and reduced movement. Our team offers comprehensive care—ranging from custom oral appliances to advanced therapeutic techniques—to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and help you return to normal function without surgery.

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Process of TMJ Disorder Treatment

TMJ disorder can be treated with more conservative options or more invasive options. Your visit will begin with a consultation where we will explore the options and determine what is best for you.

 

Conservative options include:

  • Rest, diet, and the reduction of stress
  • Avoiding hard or chewy foods that overwork the jaw so it can rest and reduce inflammation
  • Using medications to alleviate pain and swelling
  • Physical therapy
  • Mouthguards or appliances that can protect against teeth grinding and clenching
  • Stress reduction

 

Invasive options include:

  • Injections of medication into the jaw to reduce inflammation
  • Minimally-invasive surgery
  • Removal of debris and fluid in the jaw
  • More invasive jaw surgery

FAQ

  • What causes TMJ disorder?

    TMJ disorder can be caused by stress, teeth grinding or clenching, and even poor posture.

    It’s important to remember that dental health is tied to physical health. Poor dietary habits, constant stress, or overtiredness can all lead to TMJ disorder.

     

     

  • Can stress cause TMJ?

    Yes. Stress can lead to clenching or grinding of the teeth, which may cause or worsen TMJ symptoms.

    Teeth grinding and clenching can also lead to soreness in the neck and headaches, which are also symptoms of TMJ and can be made worse by the side effects of stress.

  • Is TMJ painful?

    Yes, TMJ can be painful. The level of pain depends on the severity of the TMJ.

    • Tenderness, soreness, or aching in the jaw muscles or joints
    • Limited range of motion when opening the mouth–usually can’t fully open and may hear a popping noise when opening and closing
    • Headaches can occur due to TMJ
    • TMJ can cause ear pain or earaches in one or both ears
    • Pain or stiffness in the neck muscles

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Where are we located?

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Mark S. Jefferies, DMD, PLC

500 Grove St Suite 303
Herndon, VA 20170

Hours

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Phone

703-793-1771

Email

[email protected]