TMJ

   Since 1978 Dr. Thomasson has treated more than 8,000 TMJ patients.  Dr. Thomasson has had extensive training in Temporomandibular Dysfunction.  

     What is TMJ?  TMJ is an abbreviation for the TemporoMandibular Joint.  Whether we are talking, swallowing or chewing, our jaw joints are in use.  The TMJ is formed by the temporal bone of the skull (Temporo) with the lower jaw or mandible (Mandibular).  These jaw joints, as all other joints, are made up muscles, ligaments, nerve cartilage and jaw bones.  Due to the complexity of jaw joints, there are many reasons that disorders can develop.  Therefore, when there is a problem with your jaw joints, a variety of symptoms may occur.  “TMJ” has been nicknamed “The Great Imposter”.  
     TMJ disorders can come from clenching, grinding, stress to the jaw joints, developmental (growth) abnormalities, trauma and/or disease.  Since the jaw joint has to function approximately 1,500 times a day to swallow saliva, and another 1,500 times on average to chew (not to mention talking, clenching, and grinding of the teeth) achieving stability generally takes longer than with other joints.  Therefore, the diagnosis of the problem(s) is far and away the most important step in determining the appropriate treatment recommendations.