TMJ Specialist

Joseph Yousefian, D.M.D., M.S. -  - Orthodontist

Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens and Adults

Joseph Yousefian, D.M.D., M.S.

Orthodontist located in Bellevue, WA

Headaches or jaw pain can make it difficult to get through the day or do the things you love to do. At Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults, in Bellevue, Washington, Joseph Z. Yousefian, DMD, MS, PS, and his team work with you to determine if a TMJ disorder is causing your pain. To learn more, call for an appointment or book online today.

TMJ Q & A

What is TMJ?

Though the term TMJ is often used synonymously with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), it is not the same.

Acting like a hinge, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) located on both sides of your head connects your jawbone to your skull. When it is working as it should, it allows your jaw to move up and down and from side to side without pain or difficulty. It is the most routinely used joint in your body since you use it when you talk, chew, yawn, or smile. When the TMJ isn’t working correctly, it can cause headaches or extreme discomfort in your jaw, face, or around your ears.

It’s not always easy to determine the cause of a TMJ disorder because your pain can stem from a combination of issues such as injury, arthritis, tension, or the clenching or grinding of teeth.

What are the signs of TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorders often cause severe pain or discomfort. More women commonly have TMJ than men, and it appears most often in those between the ages of 20-40. Signs and symptoms may include:

  • Headaches
  • Inability to open your mouth wide
  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw
  • Popping, clicking, or grinding when you chew
  • Aching in the face or around the ear
  • Locking or sticking of the jaw in either the open or closed position
  • Difficulty or discomfort while chewing

What are some treatment options for TMJ disorders?

The symptoms of TMJ often go away without treatment, but if they persist, your dentist may suggest a variety of treatment options such as medications, dental devices, or physical therapy. Other treatment options may include:

Botox®

TMJ disorders and related pain or discomfort can often find relief with Botox injections. These injections are made into the painful facial muscles, minimizing locked jaws and alleviating headaches associated with stress, tension, or grinding of the teeth.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made by drawing your blood and placing it into a centrifuge to separate its elements and create a concentrated supply. The PRP is then injected into problem areas to promote the healing process.

If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in your jaw, or if you are having trouble opening your mouth completely, it may be time to seek medical help from Dr. Yousefian and his team. They will work with you to find the best treatment and effective therapy for your TMJ. Call now or book an appointment online today.