TMJ
What Are TMJ Problems?
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The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your jaw and skull. When it is overworked, it can become inflamed or swollen. This results in symptoms like headaches, tinnitus, and even dental issues. If you're experiencing TMJ symptoms, our practice offers effective treatments like splints and trigger point injections.
A Closer Look At the Temporomandibular Joints
The temporomandibular joints, or jaw joints, connect the jawbone to the skull. They are surrounded by muscles, nerves, and connective tissue. Your TMJs allow you to open and close your mouth and to shift your jaw from side to side. When these joints are compromised, overworked, or damaged, it can cause temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms like headaches or a swollen jaw.
TMJ Treatment Can Prevent Additional Problems
Dealing with temporomandibular disorders can be incredibly stressful and painful. Without TMJ treatment, your TMD can also lead to complications like:
- A dislocated jaw joint
- Loose teeth
- Physical stress
- Broken teeth
- Muscle tension
- Teeth grinding
- Arthritis
- Worn teeth
Fortunately, there is a way to help with your TMJ symptoms and prevent complications before they can begin: by contacting us for treatment. You can trust our team to alleviate the effects of your TMD and help you avoid further issues from your overworked TMJs.
Choose a Well-Rounded Professional With Advanced TMD Training
Dr. Jeffrey S. Kearney has special training in issues of the face and jaw, including a craniofacial pain residency at The American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. He holds fellowship status with this national organization. Dr. Kearney has more than 15 years of treatment experience in neuromuscular and centric-relation techniques to combat TMJ disorder. Our dentist also offers multiple effective treatment options for TMD, like splints and electrotherapy.
Because TMJ disorders and oral health issues can share symptoms, it's extremely useful to seek help from a qualified dentist like Dr. Kearney. You can rely on him for accurate diagnosis and treatment whether a TMD or a dental concern is causing your symptoms.
Our dedicated team is here to help you find answers and relief from your TMJ symptoms. To get started, contact our Cary office or call:
(919) 859-4778
Tired of Daily TMJ Pain?
We Invite You to Fill Out Your New Patient Paperwork
If you're dealing with TMJ pain, you likely want to start treatment as soon as possible. We make it easy to complete your new patient paperwork. Simply print it, fill it out, and bring it to your temporomandibular disorder consultation.
"Dr. Kearney goes the extra mile." Why Cary, NC, Patients Trust Our Team
Kimberly Edwards
2022
Dr. Kearney and his staff are always friendly, helpful, professional, and caring. Dr. Kearney is a patient, knowledgeable and thorough dentist who goes the extra mile to solve any issues. I highly recommend Dr. Kearney and his helpful, friendly staff!
View on GoogleMike Krause
2022
This is possibly the best dentist in the Triangle in my opinion. Every time that I have had an Emergency dental situation they have gone above and beyond the call of duty!!! Highly recommended!
View on GoogleDr. Kearney Uses Advanced Technology To Screen for TMD
In addition to his years of experience, Dr. Kearney has the technology necessary to diagnose and treat TMD with precision. He includes a TMJ screening during all checkups at our Cary practice.
This screening features technology like Sirona® 3D imaging, iTero® intraoral scans, Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA), and Biopack instrumentation. With these advanced tools, Dr. Kearney can provide an in-depth analysis of the condition of your TMJs.
Some of this equipment records vibrations and noises that may be inaudible to the human ear, monitors muscle activity, and precisely tracks jaw movements. Why is that so effective? Because excessive vibrations, hyperactive muscles, and abnormal jaw movements are all indicative of TMJ issues. They often contribute to pain and other TMJ symptoms. Having detailed information about your TMJs can help Dr. Kearney develop a more targeted and lasting treatment plan.
How We Treat TMJ Disorder At Our Cary, NC, Practice
Don't wait any longer for relief from headaches, jaw tightness, and swelling. Dr. Kearney can alleviate the symptoms of your TMJ disorder in a variety of ways. Your TMJ treatment may include:
Splint Therapy
Dr. Kearney can provide a custom-fitted oral appliance, much like an athletic mouthguard. This appliance repositions your jaw to improve alignment and reduce stress on your joints. It can also cushion your teeth if you grind or clench.
Trigger Point Injections
Experiencing severe TMD pain? Dr. Kearney can inject your TMJs with local anesthetic and other pain-relieving medications, such as Sarapin. Ultimately, this can reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Electrotherapy
Dr. Kearney may use electrotherapy to stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in your TMJs. He will either use an ultrasound wand or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to deliver your treatment.
Laser Therapy
Our MLS® laser is a non-cutting cold laser that works wonders for inflammation. This laser can be used to reduce muscle tightness and pain in all the areas associated with TMJ.
Want to Learn More About Your Options?
What If I Don't Have a TMJ Disorder?
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Your jaw pain may be a result of another condition, like a broken tooth or root canal infection. If Dr. Kearney determines that a TMJ disorder is not the cause of your discomfort, know that he also provides a full range of restorative and general dentistry treatments for the relief you need.
"Wouldn’t go anywhere else." Hear More From Our Cary, NC, Patients
Tina Williams
2022
My family has been a patient of Dr. Kearney’s for 30 years. We’re like family there and he’s always got the latest technology. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
View on Googledoug morris
2022
From someone who has always hated going to the dentist, I wish I had found Dr Kearney twenty years earlier. From the front desk to all the staff, it is a pleasure to come into the office.
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