Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder

What Is TMJ?

Technically, TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, or jaw joint, one of which is located on each side of the head. These joints are where the lower jaw, or mandible (MAN-di-bul), meets the temporal (TEM-po-ral) bone, which is one of a pair of bones that form the lower part of the

Side view of a temporomandibular joint.

Each temporomandibular joint acts as both a hinge and a gliding joint; they allow the jaw to open and to slide from side to side.TMJ also refers to temporomandibular joint syndrome (or disorder), in which the joints do not function properly. This may cause pain, difficulty opening and closing the mouth easily, or problems with chewing and swallowing, as well as other symptoms.

What Are the Causes of TMJ?

TMJ can be caused by dislocated temporomandibular joints or by inherited problems with the joints. In a condition called bruxism (BRUK-siz-um), some people grind their teeth during sleep or times of stress, which can lead to TMJ. Malocclusion, when teeth do not fit together properly; whiplash injuries * from car accidents; being hit on the head or jaw; and arthritis ^* are other causes of TMJ.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

Since the TMJ joint is located near many important nerves going between the brain and many parts of the body, the symptoms can be felt in parts of the body that do not seem related to the TMJ joint. Millions of Americans report some of the following symptoms:

• Frequent headaches
• Pain in the face, sinuses, ears, eyes, teeth, neck, and back
• Clicking sounds in the jaw
• Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth
• Trouble chewing or swallowing

How Is TMJ Diagnosed and Treated?

Doctors or dentists will ask the patient to describe the symptoms and will then examine the patient. Sometimes, x-rays and MRIs ^* are used to examine the joints to diagnose TMJ.
Hot compresses and over-the-counter pain medications may help relieve TMJ. Stress management and mouth guards worn at night can help eliminate teeth grinding and its effects.

^* whiplash injuries describe general injuries to the spine and spinal cord at the junction of the fourth and fifth vertebrae  in the neck occurring as a result of rapid acceleration or deceleration of the body.
^* arthritis refers to any of several disorders characterized by inflammation of the joints.
^* MRI, which is short for magnetic resonance imaging, produces computerized images of internal body tissues based on the magnetic properties of atoms within the body.

Ask Dr. Boscken if you have any signs or symptoms which concern you. We are happy to guide you in resolving concerns!

Meet the Team!

Kristen has been a dental assistant for 7 years. She joined our practice over a year ago and has 6 years experience in cosmetic dentistry. Kristen grew up in Montana and currently lives with her husband and daughter in Boulder Creek. On the weekends you will find her playing any and all outdoor sports and spending time with her family.

Lindsay has been the treatment coordinator for Boschken Orthodontics for 3 years. She has over 10 years experience in the dental and orthodontic field. She grew up in South San Jose and still resides in the neighborhood with her husband and daughter. On the weekends you can find Lindsay riding her mountain bike, running, camping, wakeboarding, snowboarding, watching football and spending time with her family.

Lisa has been a Registered Dental Assistant for 13 years and has really enjoyed orthodontics the last 4 of those years. She is a people person and an occasional practical joker. She has a caring personality with a special place in her heart for animals. She enjoys camping with her husband and friends. Like most Pisces, Lisa loves water.

Sonya is our Patient Relations Coordinator and Registered Dental Assistant (for 26 years!) She has been with Boschken Orthodontics since 2002 and enjoys all aspects of Orthodontic care. If you have any questions regarding treatment, please let her know-she is such a people person! She is also chief in charge of our office contests, and social networking/blog sites so let her know about the fun things happening in your community! Sonya lives in Sunnyvale with her fabulous husband, wonderful son, energetic dog and crazy cat. In her spare time she enjoys photography, the beach, volunteering, movies, paper crafts, baseball and swimming.

Victoria has been a Registered Dental Assistant for 17 years and joined Dr. Boschken’s team ten years ago. She has experience in both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. Her favorite part of her job is working with kids. She loves the group she works with and loves coming to work every day. Victoria lives in San Jose with her husband and her daughter, Alex.

Nicole is our financial coordinator. She joined our team in August 2006 and has been the backbone of our practice. She lives in San Jose with her husband and two dogs. A few of her favorite hobbies include scuba diving, party planning, and gardening.