West Mill Smiles

Dr. Jennifer Lee Explains TMJ to Patients


Medfield, MA -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/18/2016 -- Dr. Lee of West Mill Smiles explains to her patients who suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJS) what it is and what causes it. Simply put, it is what happens when the muscles in the jaw and the temporomandibular joint are out of alignment or misaligned.

Often, TMJ syndrome presents itself as a popping sound and sensation near the jaw joint. TMJS is actually something about 60 million people in America currently have. Dr. Lee states, "TMJ problems can affect people of all ages, although patients under 40 are more susceptible and it also occurs more frequently in women. Left untreated, the TMJ symptoms can increase in number and severity as you get older."

"So what's happening is the ligaments, muscles, bones and joints do not line up, thereby causing pain," explains Dr. Lee. Symptoms of TMJ can be agonizing and may include the following: Clicking, popping or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth, headaches and/or dizziness, tenderness in jaw muscles, earache and jaws that sometimes lock open when yawning. Most of the time all that's needed is a simple adjustment to the bite (the way your teeth come together) or a small mouthpiece that corrects the way the jaw joint closes.

Dr. Lee will discuss possible causes and treatments of a TMJ problem. In many cases, however, the cause of TMJ disorders isn't clear and can be a combination of ailments. In order to determine the best course of treatment, an accurate diagnosis is imperative.

"Our treatment is conservative and often does not involve shots. We can treat these problems because they are most likely caused by clenching your teeth usually when you're sleeping," remarks Dr. Lee. When you clench your teeth you use some of the strongest muscles in your body that can cause morning and tension headaches, damage to surrounding joints, teeth and other muscles.

For a long time, the idea that chronic headaches and migraines were linked to the jaw joint wasn't given serious attention. Finally, the medical and dental communities are collaborating in an interdisciplinary assault on Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome Disorder (TMJD).

About Dr. Lee
Dr. Lee is passionate about the well-being of her patients. Dr. Lee seeks to bring the latest, state-of-the-art research and technology to her patients, ensuring that they receive unparalleled dental care.

To make an appointment with Dr. Lee, call 508-359-8004.