Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders involve problems affecting the jaw joints and the muscles responsible for chewing and jaw movement. Symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking, popping, stiffness, or difficulty opening your mouth can occur when the jaw joints and muscles are not working together properly.

The temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to speak, chew, and move your jaw comfortably. Because some TMJ conditions can worsen over time, early evaluation and treatment can help prevent more significant issues.

While there is no single treatment that works for every patient, Dr. Humes can evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized approach to help improve jaw comfort, movement, and overall function.

You may benefit from a TMJ evaluation if you experience:

• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Sore or stiff jaw muscles, especially in the morning
• Frequent headaches or neck aches
• Increased pain when clenching your teeth
• Jaw clicking, popping, catching, or locking
• Difficulty or discomfort when eating, yawning, or opening your mouth
• A history of jaw, head, or neck injuries
• Changes in how your teeth come together
• Tooth sensitivity, wear, looseness, or damage
• The more symptoms you experience, the more important it is to seek a professional evaluation.

In some cases, TMJ disorders may affect the way your teeth fit together and may require additional treatment, such as bite adjustment, orthodontic care, restorative dentistry, or jaw reconstruction.

Surgical treatment options, including arthroscopy or open joint procedures, are reserved for more severe cases when conservative treatments are unsuccessful or when significant joint damage is present. Dr. Humes will carefully evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach for your needs.