Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause severe pain and discomfort to your face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide. The symptoms can vary from toothaches, headaches, neck aches, earaches, to hearing problems and upper shoulder pain.

It can be temporary or it can last for years. The good news is that in most cases these painful symptoms can be eliminated through non-surgical therapy or surgery. Nebraska Medicine has a team of highly trained experts who can provide a complete range of surgical and non-surgical solutions that can help you return to a normal life again.  

If you are experiencing persistent jaw pain, clicking or popping in the jaw joints, difficulty opening the mouth, joint noise or limitation of function in these areas, seek evaluation of your symptoms from the experts at Nebraska Medicine.  

Receive Care From Our Highly Skilled TMJ Experts 

At Nebraska Medicine, we have a highly skilled oral and maxillofacial team trained in the most advanced surgical and nonsurgical techniques. We are one of the only centers in the state that can perform a complete range of procedures, from joint injections and arthrocentesis to total joint replacement for end stage disease. Our specialists will work with you to develop a care plan and treatment options customized to your needs.

TMJ can occur when the joint is injured or put under pressure or stresses such as injury in the area, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, grinding, arthritis or even chewing gum.

When possible, our specialists will recommend non-surgical therapeutic options to eliminate symptoms, such as splints, physical therapy, soft foods or anti-inflammatory medications. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgery may be indicated.

Surgeries for TMJ include the repositioning or removal of the disc. In cases of advanced joint disease, prosthetic joint replacement may be recommended.