TMJ Disfunction

Many patients grind or clench their teeth, which is a condition known as bruxism. This grinding may also put unintended pressure on the muscles and tissues of your jaw resulting in tooth and other jaw disorders, headaches and ear pain. The symptoms of this disorder are often referred to as TMJ / TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction).

Signs and symptoms that may be related to TMJ /TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)

·         Headaches

·         Sharp pain in the area under the earlobe

·         Waking up with sore jaw muscles

·         Clicking, popping of the jaw joint

·         Abnormal tooth wear (teeth getting shorter over the years)

·         Grinding or clenching your teeth

·         Tooth sensitivity unrelated to cavities or gum disease

At your initial examination, we perform a thorough examination of your occlusion (bite) and surrounding muscles. If the bite is not correct, Dr. Apfel in his Huntington, NY dental office will perform an occlusal adjustment, a procedure whereby biting contacts that are higher than others are lightly shaped. The object is to provide a harmony of all of the teeth when in contact.

If an occlusal orthotic appliance or night guard is recommended for you, Dr. Apfel will take an impression and send the molds to a professional dental laboratory. A custom fit, durable acrylic orthotic  will be fabricated and then custom fit to your mouth. With a good occlusion (bite) of your natural teeth, along with a properly fitting and functioning occlusal orthotic, you will most likely see a significant decrease in headaches or other TMJ symptoms.