Atlanta, Georgia TMJ Treatment & Diagnosis


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Gainesville
1221 Sherwood Park Dr., NE
Gainesville, GA 30501
770-531-1075 » Email Us

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where the lower jaw joins the temporal bone of the skull in front of the ear on each side of the head. A small disc of cartilage separates the bones so the mandible slides easily. The TMJ moves every time one chews, talks, and swallows and is one of the most frequently used of all joints of the body.

When a patient experiences pain over the joint in front of the ear, possibly radiating elsewhere, it is often caused by TMJ Syndrome (or TMJ Disorder). Although there are many options for TMJ treatment, our practice’s approach to treatment for this disorder is TMJ surgery. By the time TMJ surgery is discussed, the typical patient has been referred to our office by his/her primary care dentist or physician after other therapy options (heat, soft diet, medications, therapeutic appliances) have been exhausted.

At this point, we obtain an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which produces detailed and accurate images of the temporomandibular joint as well as the surrounding soft tissue to be used in diagnosing TMJ problems. If the patient appears to be a candidate for TMJ surgery after the MRI is reviewed, a psychological evaluation is required.

TMJ Diagnosing: MRI showing normal position of meniscus in closed mouth view TMJ Treatment: MRI showing anterior dislocation of meniscus in closed mouth view.

MRI showing normal position of meniscus in closed mouth view. MRI showing anterior dislocation of meniscus in closed mouth view.

Stress & TMJ Symptoms

Since many TMJ symptoms can be attributed to stress (jaw clenching, fingernail biting, etc.) or depression, a psychologist can help identify ways to manage stress for our TMJ surgery patients that will aid them in their recovery. The best TMJ surgery in the world cannot help relieve the stress in a relationship or at work. And if the stress issues aren't resolved, an optimum outcome cannot be expected. If the psychological evaluation is positive, surgery is scheduled.