The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located where the jawbone attaches to the skull and is what allows the lower jaw to move. It is a surprisingly complex area, with nerve bundles, blood vessels, muscle, bone, and cartilage interacting in close proximity to the brain. Problems with the TMJ can cause pain in a variety of areas, and because of its complexity, TMJ disorder symptoms and their treatment can vary widely. Serving Whittier, Brea, and La Habra, Dr. Grant Burdick has extensive training and experience in neuromuscular dentistry. Our Brea office stays up-to-date with advances in this rapidly developing field of medicine, so we can give you the best care available.

• TMJ Symptoms
• TMJ Causes
• Invisalign®
• Tooth-colored Fillings

TMJ disorder can manifest a variety of symptoms. Many patients experience pain when opening and closing their jaw or pain in the neck, face, shoulders, or back. Some people hear or feel a popping or clicking sound when they move their jaw or are sometimes unable to open it fully. Earaches and ringing in the ears are also not uncommon, given the proximity of the TMJ to the ears. Additionally, TMJ disorder can cause pain in different areas of the teeth and jaw, which may sporadically move to other areas.

Physicians frequently cite bruxism, or teeth grinding, as a major factor in the development of TMJ disorder. Though many people grind their teeth unconsciously or while sleeping, it places large amounts of stress on the teeth and TMJ; teeth may become unevenly worn, leading to an unbalanced bite, and the joint itself can become damaged. The TMJ can also become damaged by an impact to the jaw or head, or by arthritis. Any of these causes may impair the balance and function of the joint. Unfortunately, with the repetitive use it gets throughout the day, any slight problem is easily exacerbated.

Because the causes and symptoms of TMJ disorder are so varied, treatment options also range widely. Some problems may be fixed using only a bite guard, which prevents grinding and clenching of the jaw while the patient sleeps; other problems may require a change in diet or even surgery on rare occasion. Dr. Grant Burdick has helped many patients with TMJ disorder ease their painful symptoms and is known in Whittier, Brea, and La Habra for excellent neuromuscular dentistry.

Contact Designed SmilesServing Brea, Fullerton, and La Habra, Designed Smiles offers porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, Invisalign® clear braces, smile makeovers, and more. Please contact cosmetic dentist Grant Burdick for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Contact Us

Name:

Contact Number:

Email:

Interested In:

Enter Code:

Map & Directions