What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint that connects your upper and lower jaw. When there is a malfunction in the joint, it causes a cycle of pain and spasms that can disrupt someone’s ability to function normally.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
- Pain in the face and neck
- Teeth being worn down
- Clicking and popping of the jaw joint
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
- Ringing in the ears
What is a TMJ Dentist?
There is no recognized dental specialty in TMJ; therefore, no dentist can accurately call themselves a TMJ dentist. However, the dentists at Burba Dental have been treating TMJ for over 40 years. Dr. Stanley Burba, in particular, has some impressive credentials.
Dr. Stanley Burba’s TMJ Credentials
Dr. Burba has studied at the Dawson Academy in Florida. Founded by Dr. Peter Dawson, this continuing education academy for dentists focuses on TMJ therapy.
Another well-respected TMJ expert is Dr. Frank Spear, a prosthodontist who runs a training institute in Seattle. Dr. Burba has taken several courses from him.
And he and Dr. Randall Burba have taken other courses on TMJ treatment, including from the PAC Live Institute and other experts.
Treating TMJ Disorder
Many dentists are uncomfortable treating TMJ disorder because it is so complex and requires highly specialized skills and equipment. The first difficulty a dentist faces is determining exactly what is wrong and what is causing the pain. To address this, at Burba Dental we have invested in the T-Scan Occlusal Analysis System by Tekscan. This system uses a highly sophisticated piece of diagnostic equipment, the T-Scan sensor. You bite down on the T-scan sensor. The computer analyzes all your bite data and displays it graphically. That data is extremely helpful in determining the cause of your problem. We then use that information to help set up your treatment plan.
Treatment is usually done in two phases. Phase one is to get you out of pain. This can be done with moist heat, pain medications, or a temporary orthotic that we’ll adjust as necessary. Phase two is a long-term solution, and treatment varies from case to case. Sometimes a long-term orthotic is used to move a displaced disc into its correct position. Other cases may need some dental work such as implants, crowns, or bridges to restore your bite to normal. In the most severe cases, there may need to be a full mouth reconstruction.
Each case is unique. If you’ve been suffering from TMJ disorder, you may either call to schedule an appointment or click here to visit our request an appointment page. We’ll get you on the road to recovery. If you have questions about what we could do for you, you could schedule a complimentary consultation to ask those questions before committing to a comprehensive examination.