Temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD’s) are often called "TMJ" by doctors, patients and even insurance companies, although the term TMJ actually refers only to the jaw joints themselves.

TMJ/TMD describes a group of diseases that can involve the jaw joints, the muscles that control jaw movement and the dental occlusion. TMJ/TMD’s are physical disorders arising from an imbalance in the delicate working relationship of the jaw and skull with the muscles that move the jaw, as well as the nervous system associated with these systems. This imbalance results in muscle fatigue, spasm and/or joint dysfunction, and even changes in the teeth, which in turn cause a variety of symptoms, unique for each person. The symptoms of TMJ/TMD, which affect millions of adults and children, can gradually appear with no apparent or specific cause. However, anything from a bad bite alignment, stress, nail biting, excessive chewing or trauma to the face can cause TMJ/TMD.

If you are experiencing jaw discomfort or pain, contact our office to arrange a consultation with Dr. Schau to determine if you may be suffering from TMJ/TMD.