Questions About TMJ

Houston, Texas

What is TMJ?

TMJ is an acronym that refers to your temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. The term is often used incorrectly to refer to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This is a condition resulting from a misalignment of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When this joint is out of alignment, the muscles in the region become strained, causing pain throughout your face, neck, and shoulders.

What are the symptoms of TMD?

Common symptoms of TMD include:

• Ear pain
• Jaw pain
• Facial pain
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Tinnitus
• Headaches
• Clicking and popping sounds in your jaw
• Limited range of motion in your jaw
• Uneven bite
• Difficulty chewing

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, you might be suffering from TMD. Houston neuromuscular dentist Dr. Ronald Konig can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend the appropriate treatment method to alleviate your symptoms.

What can Dr. Konig do to relieve my TMD symptoms?

Dr. Konig’s TMD treatment involves two phases. In the first phase, he will work to eliminate the pain associated with your condition. Treatment options may include TENS unit therapy, pain medication, muscle exercises, and pain release splints.

The second phase of your TMD treatment will correct the actual problem causing your symptoms. Dr. Konig may recommend occlusal equilibration to even out your bite, restorative dentistry procedures to repair problems with your bite, orthotic mouth pieces to place your jaw in its optimal resting position, or orthodontics to move your teeth into the proper position, eliminating bite issues.

Is tinnitus related to TMD?

Yes, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is often caused by bite issues stemming from a misaligned jaw. If your tinnitus is a symptom of TMD, then Dr. Konig can use principles of neuromuscular dentistry to remedy the condition.

Sometimes I hear a popping sound when I move my jaw. Do I have TMD?

A popping noise when you move your jaw is a common symptom of TMD. This sound is caused by a deterioration of the cartilage in your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which results in the joint’s ball and socket rubbing together. If your popping noise is caused by TMD, Dr. Konig can recommend an appropriate treatment option to remedy the condition.

Please contact our Houston, Texas TMJ dentist today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Konig.  Serving patients in Texas including Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, and Galveston.