TMJ
Do you find yourself waking up with a sore jaw, or jaw pain developing throughout the day?
This soreness and other symptoms, such as headaches and ear ringing, may be caused by temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.
Our dentist at Gentle Family Dentistry is certified to help Rockford, IL, patients treat their TMJ disorder.
TMJ Versus TMD What's the Difference?
TMJ
The TMJs, or temporomandibular joints, connect your jawbone to your skull and are located in front of your ears. These joints help you perform various jaw movements, such as chewing and speaking, making the health of the TMJs of top dental importance.
TMD
TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, refers to a condition that affects the TMJs and the muscles and tissues surrounding them. Leaving a TMD untreated can result in increased pain, chronic headaches, limited jaw movement, and other unfavorable symptoms.
Dr. Alkassir Is Specially Qualified To Treat TMJ Disorders
You're in good hands: our dentist, Dr. Mohamad Alkassir, is certified in treating TMJ disorders and orofacial pain. He is affiliated with the following organizations:
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition where patients unconsciously grind or clench their teeth during the night or day. This unconscious grinding and clenching can put stress on your temporomandibular joint.
Jaw Misalignment
When the upper and lower jaws are misaligned, your bite can become uneven, causing you to put unnatural stress on the areas where the teeth touch and leading to TMJ problems.
Stress and Tension
Stress may manifest itself in a tightening of the facial muscles or clenching and grinding of the jaw. This stress and tension may be contributing to your temporomandibular disorder.
Injury or Trauma
Physical injury or trauma to the jaw area may damage the temporomandibular joint. Car accidents and sports injuries are two common causes of trauma to the TMJs.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ by causing inflammation around the area, cartilage breakdown, and damage to the joint tissues.
Overuse
Overuse of the temporomandibular joints can lead to a TMD. If you are constantly chewing gum, for instance, you can strain the jaw joint, which can contribute to your TMJ disorder.
We Accept Insurance
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Our staff will work with you to contact your insurance provider and see if coverage is possible for part or all of your treatment. Some treatments, like night guards, are more likely to be covered by your insurance than others, like BOTOX.
"Super friendly environment!" Gratitude and Stories From Our Rockford, IL, Patients
joana BarrazaRobles
Loves Park, IL
2023
Super friendly environment! Very hightech services. Made my family and i feel super comfortable.
View on GoogleCharlie Huls
Loves Park, IL
2023
Everybody is very nice and the inside gives a comfortable feeling. Beyond that the service is great and they definitely know what they’re doing.
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