Question 1

I have TMJ. What does that mean?

Accepted Answer

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects your lower jaw to your skull. There can be pain and dysfunction resulting from disorders related to either or both TMJ. These symptoms are collectively referred to as TMJ disorders (TMJD or TMD) and can be caused by various factors.

Question 2

Why can’t you tell me what the standard treatment is for TMJ problems?

Accepted Answer

We can't provide treatment options over the phone without a proper diagnosis. Just like you wouldn't expect treatment recommendations for a stomach ache without seeing a doctor, facial and jaw pain requires a thorough history, exam and diagnosis first. Once diagnosed, a personalized therapy plan can be created, as there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

Question 3

My jaw hurts. What’s going on?

Accepted Answer

Jaw pain can stem from various sources, including dental problems, injuries, infections, or issues related to muscles and joints. An Orofacial Pain Specialist, equipped with extensive additional training in this field, is adept at conducting a comprehensive assessment to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your discomfort and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Question 4

I can’t open my mouth. What’s going on?

Accepted Answer

Limited mouth opening can result from various factors, including dental problems, trauma, infections, muscle and/or joint issues. An Orofacial Pain Specialist is trained to diagnose and treat these issues.

Question 5

I have already seen many TMJ specialists and tried different splints. I am still in pain. What makes your approach different?

Accepted Answer

Orofacial Pain Specialists are trained to pinpoint the source of your symptoms. TMJ issues that are not resolving are often complex with multiple factors contributing. It is imperative to determine all of these factors and address each of them in order to see improvement. Once the cause is identified, a tailored therapy plan can be developed. There's no universal treatment that fits all patients.

Question 6

I was told that my TMJ disc is dislocated. Does that mean I will need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Typically, a TMJ disc dislocation does not  require surgery as the majority of joints are able to adapt and function comfortably even with a dislocated disc. Dr. Jurash will be able to support you through the process of adapting to this new disc position.

Question 7

I was told that my TMJ disc is dislocated, and someone could put it back in place. Can you do that?

Accepted Answer

Once a TMJ disc is completely dislocated, it cannot be “put back in place”. The TMJ is a complex joint with many structures, including muscles, ligaments, and bones. When the disc is displaced, it affects the overall balance of these structures. Over time, the surrounding tissues adapt to the new position of the disc. This makes it basically impossible to restore the disc to its original location.

Question 8

My dentist recommended Botox for teeth clenching and grinding. Do you recommend Botox as well?

Accepted Answer

Botox serves as a valuable treatment for chronic muscular pain, but it's generally not the initial course of action. When conventional treatments like stretching, thermal therapy, appliances, trigger point injections, and dry needling prove unsuccessful, Botox becomes a viable option. It's important to note that a significant number of patients find successful treatment without resorting to the use of expensive neuromodulators like Botox, which often entail recurring injections every 3-4 months. Our primary goal is to achieve success with cost-effective alternatives that are equally effective, sparing patients the burden of ongoing expenses.