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8400 Osuna Road NE, Suite 6B

Albuquerque, New Mexico 87111

Dr. Steven J. Traub Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Albuquerque

Call us at (505) 292-8555

or 1(800) 235-6484

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HOME > PROCEDURES > TMJ SURGERY

TMJ Surgery

Temporomandibular Joint

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders are a debilitating problem for many people. Because of a wide range of symptoms it can be difficult to diagnose accurately. A thorough evaluation is required to make diagnoses. This will include a comprehensive medical history, a physical evaluation and radiographic imaging. Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include jaw popping, clicking or locking in place. Once a diagnosis is made there are two treatment options; surgical and non-surgical. Dr. Traub considers both of these when developing a treatment plan. For further information please click on the button below.

Mandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) occurs as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint, and surrounding facial muscles that control movement of the jaw. The mandibular joint is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw to the base of the skull. This joint is located immediately in front of the ear on each side of the head. The muscles attached to the jaw allow the jaw an incredible amount of movement: side-to-side and up and down. This flexibility allows us to chew, talk, and yawn.

Those who suffer form TMJ experience severe pain and discomfort. This pain can last for as many as several years or a few months. This disorder is often seen in people between 20 and 40.

Some symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or yawn

• Limited ability to open the mouth wide

• Jaws that get “stuck” or “lock” in the open-or closed-mouth position

• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the joint when the mouth is opened or closed

• Tired feeling in the face or neck

• Difficulty chewing

• Sudden uncomfortable feeling when biting

• Swelling on the side of the face

• Toothaches

• Headaches or neck aches

• Dizziness

• Earaches

• Hearing problems

• Upper shoulder pain

• Ringing in the ears

What Causes TMJ?

The main cause of TMJ is still unknown but scientists believe the symptoms are a result of problems in the muscles of the jaw or with parts of the joint.

Known factors that contribute to TMJ include:

• Trauma

• Bruxism – Grinding of the teeth

• Clenching

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis