Effective Relief for Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn. When this complex joint and the surrounding muscles do not function correctly, it can lead to a painful condition known as a TMJ disorder. This can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily life.

At Lee Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Periodontics, our specialists, Dr. Casey Lee, Dr. Calvin Lee, and Dr. Stacey Lee, have advanced training in diagnosing and treating TMJ conditions. With a unique combination of expertise in both oral surgery and periodontics, our team offers modern, effective solutions for patients experiencing jaw pain and related symptoms at our offices in San Francisco and Cupertino.

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Understanding TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body, acting as both a hinge and a gliding joint. Its complexity and constant use make it susceptible to problems. TMJ disorders can arise from various issues, including injury to the joint, a displaced disc, muscle strain, or a misaligned bite.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders Include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
• Difficulty chewing or discomfort while biting
• Locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
• Headaches or migraines
• Earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness in the ears
• Facial swelling

Symptoms can be temporary or long-lasting, ranging from mild to severe.

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What Causes TMJ Disorders?

There is often no single cause for a TMJ disorder. It typically results from a combination of factors, such as:

• Injury: Trauma to the jaw joint or surrounding muscles.
• Arthritis: Degenerative joint disease affecting the TMJ.
• Bruxism: Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which places strain on the joint.
• Stress: Tension in the facial and jaw muscles.
• Bite Misalignment: Issues with how the upper and lower teeth fit together.

Our doctors perform a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your TMJ issues, which allows us to create a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

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The Importance of Early Treatment

If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic pain, restricted jaw movement, and permanent damage to the joint. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for finding relief and preventing long-term complications. Our team emphasizes a comprehensive evaluation to provide timely care and prevent the condition from worsening.

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Your Comprehensive TMJ Evaluation

Your care begins with a detailed evaluation at one of our offices. During this appointment, one of our doctors will:

• Review your complete medical and dental history.
• Perform a physical examination of your jaw, bite, and facial muscles.
• Listen for any sounds in the jaw joint during movement.
• Assess your jaw’s range of motion.
• Determine if advanced imaging, such as X-rays or a CT scan, is necessary.

This thorough assessment helps us accurately diagnose your condition and develop the most effective treatment plan for you.

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TMJ Treatment Options

Because TMJ disorders vary widely, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient.

1. Conservative Treatments
   Most TMJ disorders can be managed with conservative, non-invasive therapies, including:
   • Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding hard or chewy foods and practicing stress-reduction techniques.
   • Oral Appliances: Custom-made night guards or splints to reduce the effects of clenching or grinding.
   • Medication: Prescribing medications to relieve muscle pain, reduce inflammation, or ease tension.
   • Physical Therapy: Recommending specific jaw exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
2. Advanced Treatments
   For more severe or persistent TMJ disorders, we may recommend advanced procedures:
   • Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive procedure that involves flushing the joint space to reduce inflammation.
   • Arthroscopy: A surgical procedure that uses a small camera to diagnose and treat problems inside the joint.
   • Open-Joint Surgery: Reserved for the most severe cases where there is significant damage to the joint.

Our expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery ensures that you receive the safest and most effective treatment for your condition.

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Benefits of TMJ Treatment

Effective treatment for TMJ disorders is designed to relieve pain and improve your overall quality of life. Patients who receive care at our practice often experience:

• Reduced jaw and facial pain
• Greater comfort while chewing and speaking
• Relief from chronic headaches and ear-related symptoms
• Improved range of motion in the jaw
• Protection for teeth against damage from grinding

These improvements contribute to better oral health and lasting daily comfort.

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Our Locations

We proudly serve patients across the Bay Area with two convenient offices:

San Francisco Office
348 Taraval St
San Francisco, CA 94116

Cupertino Office
10055 Miller Ave #105
Cupertino, CA 95014