Get to the Source of Your Jaw Pain
Jaw pain, clicking, difficulty chewing, and headaches can all be signs of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. These symptoms can interfere with everyday activities and, when left untreated, may worsen over time.
At Queensboro Oral Surgery, our oral and maxillofacial surgeons have the specialized training to evaluate TMJ problems, identify the underlying cause, and recommend a treatment plan designed to reduce your symptoms and improve joint function. Most patients find relief with conservative, non-surgical approaches.
If you are experiencing jaw pain or dysfunction, call 718-263-7400 to schedule a TMJ evaluation at our office.
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Jaw locking in the open or closed position
- Chronic headaches or earaches
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Understanding TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to the skull and is one of the most complex joints in the body. It allows you to open, close, and move your jaw side to side for speaking, chewing, and yawning.
TMJ disorders can result from a combination of factors including teeth grinding, arthritis, jaw injury, misalignment, and stress-related muscle tension. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward effective treatment.
Conservative Treatment Options
Most TMJ disorders respond well to non-surgical treatment. Your surgeon may recommend a custom bite splint (oral appliance) to reduce clenching and protect the joint, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy exercises, or behavioral modifications to relieve muscle tension.
These approaches are designed to reduce symptoms, protect the joint from further damage, and improve your quality of life. Surgery is considered only when conservative measures have not provided adequate relief.
How We Approach TMJ Treatment
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your surgeon examines your jaw joints, muscles, bite, and range of motion, and reviews imaging to assess joint structure and identify contributing factors.
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Based on the findings, your surgeon explains the nature of your condition and recommends a treatment approach tailored to your specific situation.
Conservative Treatment
Most TMJ disorders are managed with non-surgical methods such as custom bite splints, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and behavioral modifications.
Surgical Options (When Needed)
For patients whose symptoms do not respond to conservative care, minimally invasive procedures or surgical intervention may be recommended and discussed in detail.
Why See an Oral Surgeon for TMJ
Specialized Training
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive extensive training in the anatomy and disorders of the jaw joint and facial structures.
Accurate Diagnosis
Advanced imaging and a thorough clinical exam help identify the specific cause of your symptoms so treatment addresses the right problem.
Conservative-First Approach
Our goal is to relieve your symptoms with the least invasive approach possible. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative treatment.
Full Spectrum of Care
If surgery is needed, your surgeon is uniquely qualified to perform it. You receive continuity of care from diagnosis through treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tired of Living with Jaw Pain?
Schedule a TMJ evaluation at Queensboro Oral Surgery in Fresh Meadows, NY. Our surgeons help identify the cause of your symptoms and create a plan to help you find relief.