Can TMJ problems make my ears to feel full?

Early detection and intervention of TMJ Disorder is needed for the best outcomes. Many people that suffer from TMD have been told that their symptoms aren’t worthy of treatment, that treatment will not help or may even cause worse problems. The truth is there are treatments to rehabilitate the temporomandibular joint, address pain and prevent future damage.

TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder, describes a variety of symptoms that occur when the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint), the muscles of the face and neck, or the cartilage inside the TMJ is damaged.

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When it comes to problems with TMJ Disorder, it turns out that kids have problems at almost twice the rate of adults.

Nearly 1 of 4 children ages kindergarten to 5^th grade, report TMJ/D symptoms a new study reports in the February 2016 journal of the American Dental Association. This study of children found that girls had about 4% higher incidence of symptoms surveyed than boys.

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There are instances where Botox can facilitate treatment for TMD. However, in some cases Botox can cover the underlying problem causing pain and hinder rehabilitation. Knowing when to use Botox is the most important question.

Can Botox Help with TMJ Disorder? Yes and No.

TMJ problems, or TMD, involve usually joint symptoms such as clicking, locking, dislocated cartilage, etc.

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TMJ treatment is specific to the individual. However, there are some consistencies with the course of treatment that offer a good idea of the timeframe most patients will experience.

How long does TMJ treatment take?

The length of treatment depends on the condition we’re trying to help you with. Each treatment plan and orthotic are “one of a kind” to a person’s diagnosis and anatomy, however, there are generalizations. Just as orthodontics (braces) have a somewhat predictable course of treatment, so does TMJ/TMD treatment.

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Some of our patients come to us and say, “I have a custom night guard but it’s not helping with my TMJ symptoms”. If you are wearing a night guard and your problem is not improving or worsening, it is probably because the appliance is not right for the situation.

I have patients that have had a night guard custom made by their general dentist in order to address morning jaw soreness, sensitive teeth, or excessive wear on their teeth. I am sometimes asked if I can use their existing night guard in my treatment of their TMD or TMJ problem. Unfortunately the answer is usually not.

Here’s why.

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