TMJ Disorders
What is a TMJ Disorder?
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are in a family of problems related to your complex jaw joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. Symptoms occur when the joints of the jaw and the chewing muscles do not work together correctly. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment is important.
No single treatment can resolve TMJ disorders completely, and treatment takes time to become effective.Trouble With Your Jaw?
TMJ disorders develop for many reasons.
- You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint.
- You may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease.
- Injuries and arthritis can damage the joint directly or stretch or tear the muscle ligaments.
Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking, or grating noise when you open your mouth or have trouble opening your mouth wide.
Have Symptoms of TMJ? Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!
Albany
Albany Office Phone Number 541-924-9000 Salem
Salem Office Phone Number 503-375-2000 Corvallis
Corvallis Office Phone Number 541-757-1566 Book Online
TMJ Symptoms
- Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
- Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
- Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
- Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
- Does stress make your clenching and pain worse?
- Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
- Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat or yawn?
- Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaws?
- Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with your joints?
- Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
- Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
- Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
- Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or worn?
TMJ Treatment
There are various treatment options that Dr. Howerton, Dr. Hopkin, Dr. Kennedy, Dr. Clark and Dr. Howerton can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Drs. Howerton, Hopkin, Kennedy, Clark and Howerton will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care joined with professional care.
The initial goals are to relieve the muscle spasm and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant. Steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include:
- Resting your jaw
- Keeping your teeth apart when you are not swallowing or eating
- Eating soft foods
- Applying ice and heat
- Exercising your jaw
- Practicing good posture
Stress management techniques, such as biofeedback or physical therapy, may also be recommended, as well as a temporary, clear plastic appliance known as a splint. A splint (or nightguard) fits over your top or bottom teeth and helps keep your teeth apart, thereby relaxing the muscles and reducing pain. A nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night and helps to protect the cartilage and joint surfaces. An anterior positioning appliance moves your jaw forward, relieves pressure on parts of your jaw, and aids in disk repositioning. It may be worn 24 hours/day to help your jaw heal. An orthotic stabilization appliance is worn 24 hours/day or just at night to move your jaw into proper position. Appliances also help to protect from tooth wear.
What About Bite Correction or Surgery?
If your TMJ disorder has caused problems with how your teeth fit together, you may need treatment such as bite adjustment (equilibration), orthodontics with or without jaw reconstruction, or restorative dental work. Surgical options such as arthroscopy and open joint repair restructuring are sometimes needed but are reserved for severe cases. Drs. Howerton, Hopkin, Kennedy, Clark and Howerton do not consider TMJ surgery unless the jaw cannot open, is dislocated and nonreducible, has severe degeneration, or the patient has undergone appliance treatment unsuccessfully.
Peak Implant & Oral Surgery
Patient Review
The thought of a dental implant scared me to death. I have had a lot of dental work done and some of it has been painful and unpleasant. However, the staff and Dr. Hopkin immediately gave me confidence and put me at ease. There was in depth explanation about what would occur and I felt a part of the team. Dr. Hopkin has a very nice manner and also gave me a lot of confidence. Each staff member treated me with courtesy, friendliness, helpfulness and efficiency. I have recommended him and his office to many friends and will continue to do so. Thanks, Dr. Hopkin and staff in the Salem office.
- Crystal O
Patient Review
i am an old veteran with extreme anxiety, off a bad experience with VA dental. this organization settled me and removed the teeth interferring with my cancer related radiation treatment. thank you dr joel. i fully recomend this organization.
- william m
Patient Review
I had my wisdom teeth removed, the whole process went very well and the staff was very helpful. I would recommend them to a friend. Thanks
- Scott S
Patient Review
The office was welcoming and warm. They made us feel comfortable and answered all our questions.
- Michael M
Patient Review
I have had six children have their wisdom teeth removed over the last ten years from all three doctors. This last June, my youngest son had major jaw surgery. We were nervous about the whole procedure, but confident in the surgeon, Dr. Howerton. He has had so much experience in doing these procedures that we felt comfortable with the outcome. My son came through with flying colors and we can say that it was a resounding success. The office was very helpful with insurance issues and the assistants were all pleasant and professional. We would definitely recommend all three doctors to anyone.
- Jo K
Patient Review
See above. Overall satisfaction Super....
- LaRae A
Patient Review
I would highly recommend Dr. Kennedy and his staff. Professional and friendly.
- Lai S
Patient Review
I was so nervous for this surgery. But the staff calmed me. I did not feel a thing, and the surgeon did an amazing job. My surgeons assistant lady was very comforting and nice to me. Thank you.
- Daniel D
Patient Review
Everyone was very nice.
- Tara W
Patient Review
Dr.kennedy and staff did a wonderful job educating me before my wisdom teeth removal. They took time to answer my questions and all were very kind and courteous. I'm very pleased with the surgery as well. I was anxious about it but it was a great experience!
- amanda d
Patient Review
I have received the best care I could ever ask for. Everyone is friendly, professional and go out of their way to make me at ease. Another thing.....they are on time for their appointments!
- Sheila C
Patient Review
Everyone was wonderful from the 1st phone call through the whole process!!!! Truly impressed when my son had all 4 of his wisdom teeth extracted on a Friday. On Sunday Dr. Hopkin personally called to see how my son was doing!!!
- Lara L
Patient Review
I have already recommended this office to a friend.
- Karen T
Patient Review
I can't stress the great care and concerns that this office staffs professionalism has been towards me. I will continue to come to this office and Dr Hopkin. Thank you so much for taking care of me. I have a hard time having teeth impressions and the assistant was great with me and it was the only time I didn't get sick. Again thank you for your professionalism and caring of your patients.
- Tina J
Patient Review
Getting my wisdom teeth out was effortless. I was taken great care of and felt safe and secure. I healed up quickly and appreciate the great care by your staff!
- Cassidy W
Patient Review
Overall I felt that the staff catered to my needs. The doctor made me feel very comfortable and at ease with the operation. I would definitely recommend this place to another friend!
- Glory L
Patient Review
Courteous and professional treatment
- John (Doug) P
Patient Review
With the welcoming atmosphere and doctors that knew what they were doing. I'd recommend this to my friends as well as come back myself if I ever needed something done again.
- Connor B
Patient Review
I have already recommended him to two people ont he first of the procedure he is very fast and Dr Hopkin is very professional and the fastest extraction expert I have ever been to , couteous and kind and FAST ! Fast means less pain !
- Peter D
Patient Review
The staff is second to none from the front desk to back office staff, extremely friendly and made the procedure as comfortable as it could be. Dr. Kennedy was awesome and I enjoyed giving him a hard time (all in fun) I hope not to have anymore teeth issues but if so wouldn't hesitate to have them help me again!
- Jim V
Patient Review
I was pretty nervous but they really make everything as simple as possible
- Aleya G
Patient Review
Staff was friendly and office looks great. Dr was friendly and very informative!
- Suzie C
Patient Review
My appointment started on time. The staff was efficient and my whole procedure really didn't take very long. I have had several visit to Dr. Howerton and have always been happy with the outcomes. He answers all questions and explains everything. You always get a personal followup call in the evening.
- Melody N
Patient Review
Wow, I came in with a lot of apprehension but left with an implant and confidence that "tender loving care" attitudes help in healing. We appreciated the complete directions for post surgery care. Thank you.
- Charles S
Patient Review
Dr. Kennedy was hilarious and put me and my family at ease when I needed to have my tooth pulled. I wish all doctors were as friendly as Dr. Kennedy was.
- Carol L
Patient Review
Dr. Kennedy was so efficient in my two implant surgeries that I felt they were just done in a few minutes though maybe less than half an hour - less stressful or anxious on my side.
- Jinxiang R
Patient Review
Dr. Kennedy and his team were so wonderful. I have avoided the dentist for years because of so many terrible experiences and doctors who would not listen to their patients. I truly look forward to the day I can return to his office for more procedures to get my implants. I was referred to Dr. Kennedy by my new and equally amazing dentist Dr. Curtis Clark and feel so lucky to have two great doctors in one town. I now feel a bit of excitement scheduling my follow up appointments and planning for my future care. Thank you so much. I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to having found these doctors for what had been a severely terrifying history with dentists in the past, I can only wish I found these two sooner. I will be recommending Dr. Kennedy and his office to anyone I know that even mentions needing work done.
- DJ W
Patient Review
I had my wisdom teeth removed by Dr. Hopkin. Dr. Hopkin was nice and he answered all my questions so that when i went in to get my wisdom teeth removed i knew what to expect. I would definitely recommend going here ! The staff here are very nice
- Olivia F
Patient Review
I would highly recommend OMS to anyone needing an oral surgeon. The whole staff were kind, friendly and reassuring, which helped made my surgery a positive experience.
- Ryan P
Patient Review
Overall the experience was good. I appreciated the gel packs and cover for icing/heating surgical area. That helped a lot! The procedure only took an hour and seemed to go smoothly. The staff were nice.
- April G
Patient Review
People that think they need to leave Albany for their dental surgery must not know about your excellent facility right here in town. Another huge asset to Albany is Dr. Joel Hopkin, This man has to be one of the greatest surgeons in America. After visiting another facility I was petrified to have any work preformed. Then after a short consultation with Dr. Hopkin I felt at ease and completely comfortable for him to proceed with my surgery. My situation was not run of the mill and as far as I am concerned he pulled a rabbit out of his hat. My dental work is almost finished with Dr. Hopkin and he will always be my hero.
- Brad H
Patient Review
I had a great experience! The staff was funny and made it less scary going in and coming out of surgery! I didn't have any problems following the surgery, so the doctors did a good job!
- Brianna H
Patient Review
Dr. Hopkin was very kind and considerate regarding the problems I have had with local Anesthetics. I have had two implants and two extractions done by him - he is an excellent surgeon and I have had no problems during surgery or recovery. He always calls to check and see how things are going. I highly recommend him to anyone interested in a implant placement.
- Rebecca S
Patient Review
I was pleased with the professionalism and courtesy of the entire staff. Dr. Howerton explained things well during and after a tooth extraction and was concerned with the quality of care. Well done.
- Jim N
Patient Review
From the scheduling an urgent appointment for a molar extraction, to wheeling me to my car, I received nothing but top rate service. They did their best to get me in soon, didn't have to sit in waiting room more than 10 minutes, had me under anesthesia in a few minutes, made me comfortable with a warm blanket and small talk to ease the anxiety. These are very important to patients that most medical facilities don't address. I had little to no swelling, very minimal after surgery pain, and even a personal follow-up call from Dr. Howerton himself that evening, great job Dr. Howerton. I haven't had a doctor do that in over 30 years when my children were small from a pediatrician. I could not of asked for better service. Even the front desk personnel knew what they were doing and on task, something I rarely see in doctors offices. Thank you staff!
- Tonya T
Patient Review
The dental hygienists and Dr. Kennedy were so nice and really calmed my daughter's nerves the day of her teeth extractions. I really appreciated their care of my daughter. They created a relaxing and fun atmosphere in a not so fun activity! 🙂 Thank you so much!!
- Erin L
Patient Review
I was very nervous coming in to have my wisdom teeth removed, but the whole team was very comforting, and reassured me that the whole process was going to be quick and easy. It was! During the first appointment, they were very informative and helped my family, as well as me, understand what was going to happen during the day of surgery. We agreed to use general anesthesia to increase comfort throughout the procedure. On the day of surgery, it was very quick. The staff took very good care of me. After being set up for the procedure, the only thing I remember was waking up getting put into my car. After arriving home, I had mild pain from the surgery, but it was hardly noticeable after taking even over the counter pain relievers. Overall, great service.
- An N
Patient Review
I just got my wisdom teeth removed this morning. I was pretty nervous, but the receptionist and the dental assistant were both friendly and comforting. I also have some anxiety related to IV's due to a bad experience when I was younger, but they talked me through it, and the IV was quick and almost completely pain-free. Dr. Hopkin definitely knew what he was doing. I was overall really pleased with how efficient and effortless the experience was and my mouth is already starting to heal just a few hours later. I was also told in advance exactly how much my insurance would cover and I paid ahead of time, which gave the whole thing complete transparency. Thanks so much guys for making this experience as pleasant and easy as possible.
- Morgan T
Patient Review
I had a wisdom tooth extracted and a root beside it removed at the same time which was left from a molar that was pulled many years previously. Everything went very well - Dr. Kennedy is a Pro - gave me a local and had the procedure done in no time. His assistant, Cindy, was also very proficient - she covered all areas of what to expect before and after, and exactly what to do when you get home; plus she has a knack for calming your nerves! THANK YOU
- Sondra S
Patient Review
My daughter had to go in twice for removal of baby teeth. I was really nervous but the dr made me feel very comfortable about the procedure! The staff are unbelievable, they took great care of my daughter and were so nice to me! The dr was also amazing! Thank you guys!!
- Rachel M
Patient Review
Everyone was super nice & accommodating. I really, really like that they give warm blankets. The ice packs they give you is amazing, so I could still use my hands for other things w/o having to hold onto an ice pack. The discharge instructions were very clear & detailed making it easy to follow. Staff were so nice & took time to answer all answers. It was a nice surprise that the doctor actually called himself from home to check on our well being & left his personal number for us to call for questions. It was great they were able to schedule an apt with my brother at the same time so I could watch him suffer along with me.
- Kiersten L
Patient Review
I am never at ease when I go to the dentist. I needed a bone graft and implant. I was very nervous, but the staff was sweet, understanding, and very patient. The doctor, Dr. Howerton, was wonderful, soft spoken and easy to talk to. After my surgeries/procedures, He went out of his way and called me personally at home to check on me and see how I was doing. I felt important and truly cared for. I had a lot of questions and I never felt rushed or made to feel like I was in the way or a bother. If I ever need a surgery/procedure done again, or if I know of anyone who might, I will recommend them to Howerton, Hopkin and Kennedy.
- Andrea k
Patient Review
Excellent care, wonderful staff
- Beth B
Patient Review
Have to say even tho my visit involved surgery ! It was a great experience. The staff was amazing. Dr. Howerton was professional but super friendly. I will differently come back if I need my other wisdom tooth extracted.
- Sesilia S
Patient Review
By far one of the most professional, pleasant and kindest experiences one could expect in a oral surgery setting.From the time of scheduling to the day of the procedure I couldn't have imagined a better outcome. On the day of procedure I told the associates that were prepping me for surgery, "I feel like i am in a spa". This is not the first time that I or my family have been patients here and I know I speak for all of us these folks are tops. Thank you all, Ralph Scariano
- Ralph S
Patient Review
The entire staff was attentive, knowledgeable and professional! Jessica was exceptional in her customer service and genuine care. She was very thorough in explaining the procedure and after care instructions. During the procedure, the staff and doctor were so attentive and asked several times if I was doing well. I really appreciate that kind of exceptional patient care! I will definitely recommend and refer others to your office!
- Jenifer S
Patient Review
Prior to my tooth extraction, if someone asked me if I like having dental work done, I would have responded with a resounding "NO". Dr. Howerton and his staff have changed my response! I was seen promptly at my appointment time and surgery preparation was begun immediately. In no time, blood pressure and heart monitoring equipment was in place and Dr. Howerton inserted the IV. During this time the staff and I were chatting as if this was no big deal. It wasn't! When I awoke, I rejoined the conversation as I was moved from the surgical table to a wheelchair. I had to ask "Is it done"? I felt terrific with no after surgery hangover. I can't believe how well the entire process has gone. It's been 21 hours since the surgery - no pain, no adverse reactions of any kind. I also appreciate the follow-up call that Dr. Howerton made to ensure that all was well. I cannot recommend Dr. Howerton or his staff highly enough. All in all, a professional and courteous experience. Thank you!
- Dennis B
Patient Review
WOW the best service i have ever had the staff were very caring and made me feel very comfortable ,And Dr Howerton was great and called me later that night to ask me if everything was going ok after the surgery WOWOWOWOW
- eric p
Patient Review
being in the amount of pain I was in changes who you are...I really cant thank you guys enough for helping so quickly with the insurance stuff...and getting me in and taken care of quickly...you guys are the greatest and I cant imagine going to anyone else...THANKS AGAIN!!!
- rhonda f
Patient Review
It's been about 24 hours since my surgery by Dr. Hopkin. Just wanted to say that, though I'd never visited this office before, I was very impressed with the kind and professional care I received on 12/3. From the reception area to my personal guide, Hayley, to the hygienist, assistants, and Dr. Hopkin I couldn't have been made more comfortable as I experienced the procedure. The guide I took home with me was explicit and very helpful. I've consulted to often. A big THANK YOU to all!!!! ( I appreciated the warm blanket, too.)
- Gerald R