What is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ or TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) is a term used to describe an entire group of symptoms that can include jaw pain, headaches, facial pain, worn/eroded teeth and clicking or popping in the jaw. Frequently, when Dr. Levy diagnoses TMJ disorder in a patient, they report at least two of the above symptoms. Snoring and teeth grinding are also widespread among patients who suffer from TMJ disorder. Women tend to experience more pain associated with TMJ disorder, but men have more significant damage to teeth, bone, and gums from the disorder.

The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the lower joint to the skull. It is an extremely complex joint and is located in an area of the body where the disorder contributes to migraine headaches, numbness or tingling in the arms and hands and significant neck and shoulder pain. In almost all cases, TMJ disorder is caused by a “bad bite” or malocclusion. Dr. Levy has seen hundreds of patients who suffer from TMJ disorder and is able to diagnose and treat most of the cases with the principles of neuromuscular dentistry.

If you have any of the following symptoms, an evaluation with Sleep Better Columbus can help to determine the best treatment options for eliminating pain and restoring your bite to the proper position.

Facial Pain
Numbness and tingling in arms and hands
Headaches/Migraines
Jaw Pain
Sore/sensitive teeth
Shoulder pain
Clicking or popping in the jaw
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Vertigo (dizzyness)

TMJ Disorder Symptoms and TMD Diagnosis Process

Understanding TMJ Disorder Symptoms

TMJ Disorder symptoms often develop gradually and may appear unrelated at first. Many patients experience discomfort during chewing, jaw movement, or speaking, while others notice stiffness in the jaw joints after waking. Additional symptoms may include difficulty opening the mouth fully, jaw locking episodes, ear pressure, and sensitivity in the muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joint. These issues can negatively affect daily activities, sleep quality, and overall comfort.

How TMD Is Diagnosed at Sleep Better Columbus

The diagnosis of TMD involves a detailed clinical evaluation to understand the function of the jaw joints, surrounding muscles, and bite alignment. At Sleep Better Columbus, advanced diagnostic techniques are used to identify the underlying cause of TMJ dysfunction. This includes assessing jaw mobility, checking for joint noises, and evaluating the patient’s bite for signs of imbalance or excessive pressure. Imaging tools such as digital X-rays or TMJ scans may also be used to confirm inflammation, joint displacement, or structural abnormalities.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Proper diagnosis ensures that treatment is tailored to the patient’s unique symptoms, joint condition, and muscle involvement. Identifying whether the issue is related to muscle strain, joint misalignment, bruxism, or structural changes allows the provider to choose the most effective therapeutic approach. Early diagnosis can also prevent long-term complications, including chronic jaw pain, increased tooth wear, and progression of bite-related conditions.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders and Chronic Jaw Pain

Personalized Care for TMJ Disorder and TMD

Treatment for TMJ Disorders focuses on reducing pain, stabilizing the jaw, and improving long-term function. Each patient receives a personalized care plan based on the source of their discomfort and the severity of their symptoms. Because TMJ Disorder can involve both muscle tension and joint instability, treatment often combines therapeutic techniques to address both issues.

Common TMD Treatment Approaches

Non-invasive treatments are often highly effective. These may include custom oral appliances designed to correct bite alignment and reduce stress on the temporomandibular joints. Appliances help reposition the jaw, ease muscular strain, and protect teeth from bruxism. Patients may also benefit from exercises that improve jaw stability, cold or warm compresses, and guidance on modifying habits that aggravate symptoms.

For complex cases involving severe joint inflammation or persistent chronic jaw pain, additional therapies may be used. This may include targeted muscle relaxation techniques, physiologic bite correction, or collaborative care with other healthcare professionals who specialize in orofacial pain.

Long-Term Relief and Ongoing Management

Managing TMJ Disorders involves more than treating immediate pain. Long-term relief requires maintaining proper jaw alignment and preventing recurring strain on the TMJ structures. Follow-up visits help ensure the appliance fits correctly, symptoms are improving, and the jaw remains stable over time. Many patients experience substantial improvement in their daily comfort and jaw mobility with consistent care and professional oversight.

TMJ Joint Inflammation

TMJ joint inflammation can develop when the temporomandibular joint experiences excessive pressure, irritation, or repetitive strain. This inflammation may cause tenderness around the jaw, reduced mobility, or swelling in the surrounding tissues. Identifying joint inflammation early allows the provider to address the cause and limit long-term joint damage.

Orofacial Muscle Dysfunction

Orofacial muscle dysfunction occurs when the muscles responsible for chewing and jaw movement become overworked or imbalanced. This may lead to muscle fatigue, tension headaches, or increased sensitivity around the face and jaw. Proper evaluation helps distinguish whether symptoms stem from muscle overuse, poor bite alignment, or nighttime clenching.

Temporomandibular Joint Imaging

Advanced TMJ imaging provides valuable insight into the condition of the temporomandibular joint, including the position of the joint disc, bone structure, and level of inflammation. Imaging also assists in identifying whether joint clicking or popping is related to displacement or degenerative changes. These findings guide treatment planning and ensure that care is based on accurate, detailed information.

Nighttime Bruxism and Clenching Effects

Nighttime bruxism places significant stress on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, worsening TMJ disorder symptoms. Grinding or clenching during sleep can cause tooth wear, morning jaw soreness, and increased muscle tightness. Managing bruxism is an essential component of TMJ Disorder care, helping reduce pressure on the TMJ and supporting long-term comfort.

Meet Dr. Mark Levy, Sleep Apnea Specialist

Dr. Mark Levy has used oral appliance therapy to treat sleep disordered breathing since 2005 in the Central Ohio area. He has treated thousands of cases, ranging from the simplest to the most complex and provides oral appliances as an alternative to or in combination therapy with CPAP.

As a member of both the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorders Disciplines, Dr. Levy has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education, assuring you an exceptional level of education, training, and experience in the use of oral appliances.

Dr. Levy also lectured to healthcare providers in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia and has plans to continue to teach abroad, bringing awareness of obstructive sleep apnea to the Russian medical community.

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Dr. Mark Levy, DDS - Sleep Better Columbus

Meet Dr. Slabach – TMJ Disorders & Orofacial Pain Care

Dawne Slabach, DDS is committed to providing compassionate care to all patients. Her passion for TMJ disorders, sleep-disordered breathing and orthodontics all stem from her own experiences with all three areas of care.

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