ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility
A
A

A
Home › TMJ Treatment

TMJ Treatment


A woman suffering from TMJ pain in Seattle, WA 98117The Temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is responsible for the movement of your lower jaw. This system of muscles, ligaments, and discs acts as a sliding hinge, which allows your jaw to move forward, backward, and side-to-side. As one of the most complex joints in the body, the TMJ can be quite fragile. Any problem that prevents this system from operating properly is known as a TMD, Temporomandibular joint disorder. TMD can develop into a painful condition that prevents you from properly speaking, smiling, and chewing. At Crown Hill Smiles, we offer several treatment options to successfully reduce your symptoms and restore function to your jaw.

The Causes and Symptoms of TMD


While the exact cause of TMD is hard to pinpoint, we believe that the symptoms arise from the muscles and parts within the joint itself. The joint contains a disc between the ball and socket. If this disc is displaced or damaged, TMD is likely. Symptoms are often the result of injury to the jaw, joint, or muscles in your neck. For instance, whiplash from a car accident can lead to TMD. TMD has also been linked to teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw, which puts immense pressure on the joint. In some cases, arthritis may also be the main cause.

Common symptoms include:

  • Problems when opening your mouth wide

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw area, face, neck, and shoulders, or when you chew and speak

  • Problems with a jaw that gets stuck or locked in an open or closed position

  • A tired feeling in your face

  • Clicking or popping noises when you move your jaw

  • Swelling of the jaw or side of your face

  • Toothaches, headaches, earaches, and neck pain


In rare instances, tinnitus, or a ringing in the ears, can also be a symptom of TMD. Dizziness and other hearing problems have also been reported. You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. Drs. Walker and O'Connor will be able to determine if you suffer from TMD and provide the necessary treatment. During a physical exam, we will listen to and feel your jaw, when you open and close your mouth. We may also press on areas that have been identified as sites of discomfort or pain.

Treatment options for TMD


In some cases, symptoms of TMD may go away without treatment. For those that do not, we may recommend a few different treatment options.

We offer some nonsurgical treatments that may help to relieve your pain, including:

  • Over-the-counter medications — Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can be a highly effective way to treat TMD.

  • Muscle relaxants — These types of drugs can help patients who clench their jaw as the result of stress.

  • Mouth guards — These plastic guards fit over your upper and lower teeth. They lessen the effect of clenching or grinding your teeth while you sleep. In severe cases, we may also recommend a splint, which is used during waking hours.

  • Relaxation techniques — If your TMD is stress-related, we can teach you relaxation techniques to help loosen your jaw.


Schedule a Consultation


If you think you may suffer from TMD, call (206) 204-9623, and schedule your consultation visit now!
Copyright © 2014-2026 Crown Hill Smiles and WEO Media - Dental Marketing (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
TMJ Treatment Seattle, WA | Crown Hill Dental Care
TMJ Solutions in Seattle WA, by Crown Hill Dental Care. We are Committed to Your Complete Oral Health & Radiant Smile. Call Today! (206) 204-9623
Crown Hill Smiles, 8001 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117 \ (206) 204-9623 \ crownhillsmiles.com \ 8/10/2026 \ Related Phrases: dentist Loyal Heights \