Your temporomandibular joint (or TMJ) joins your lower jaw with your skull. There is a joint on both sides of your jaw, just in front of each ear. This joint is critical for daily activities like eating and speaking.
TMJ disorder
 happens when there is injury or irritation to your TMJ. It can be caused by things like trauma to the face or jaw, arthritis or teeth grinding, to name a few. The symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Limited jaw movement or flexibility
- Radiating pain in your jaw or face
- A clicking or popping sound when you open and close your mouth
- Headaches
- Difficulty or pain when chewing
- Trouble opening your mouth
- Pain in your neck, shoulders or ears
Our experienced dentist can diagnose your TMJ disorder with our state-of-the-art 3D scanners. If you do have TMJ disorder, she will develop a treatment plan to help relieve you of your pain and improve the condition.
Your TMJ treatment plan will depend on the cause and severity of your TMJ disorders. For some, jaw and facial relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes and physical therapy are enough to improve their jaw function. In other cases, restorative dental treatments, night guards or even jaw surgery may be recommended. Dr. Shutong Hartsell will evaluate your jaws to determine which type of treatment will be most beneficial for you.
Call Riverside Dental at 703-263-8009 today to schedule your appointment and learn more about TMJ treatment in Arlington, Virginia!