TMJ / TMD

If you experience persistent jaw pain, headaches, clicking or locking of the jaw, or facial discomfort that does not improve, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Early treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Yes. TMJ disorder can interfere with sleep due to jaw discomfort, muscle tension, and clenching or grinding at night. Treating TMJ often leads to improved sleep quality and reduced nighttime symptoms.
Yes. TMJ oral appliances are custom-designed medical devices intended to improve jaw alignment and joint function. Standard night guards primarily protect teeth from grinding but do not correct bite issues or address joint dysfunction.
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the jaw, bite, facial muscles, and joint function. Dr. Gorman may also assess posture, airway function, and contributing lifestyle factors to determine the underlying causes and create a customized treatment plan.
Absolutely. Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) places excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, often worsening or triggering TMJ symptoms. Oral appliance therapy is commonly used to reduce this strain and protect the joint.
Yes. TMJ dysfunction frequently contributes to chronic headaches and migraines. Muscle strain and joint irritation in the jaw can radiate pain to the temples and head, making TMJ a common but often overlooked cause of recurring headaches.
Symptoms of TMD may include jaw pain or stiffness, headaches or migraines, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, facial pain, ear discomfort or fullness, difficulty chewing, and limited jaw movement. Some patients also experience neck, shoulder, or upper back pain.
Yes. Stress commonly contributes to jaw clenching, muscle tension, and teeth grinding, all of which can aggravate TMJ symptoms. Effective treatment often includes addressing stress-related muscle activity alongside structural and functional issues.
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself, while TMD (temporomandibular disorder) describes conditions that affect the joint, muscles, and surrounding structures. While the terms are often used interchangeably, TMD is the more accurate term for the condition.
TMJ disorder can result from several factors, including bite misalignment, jaw muscle imbalance, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), joint degeneration, trauma, or chronic stress. In many cases, TMD develops from a combination of contributing factors, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is essential.