The TMJ or Temporomandibular Joint is your jaw joint at the base of your skull, beneath your ear. It is the joint that opens and closes your jaw, and it’s the source of pain for patients with TMJ disorders.

Many people feel pain in their jaw, and we often have patients who hear popping sounds in the joint. Jaw popping noises are not necessarily a sign of disease or disorder, but they can be. Talk to a medical professional like an orthodontist if you are experiencing pain or popping in your TMJ. Dr. Hansen is experienced in providing TMJ treatment in Las Vegas, and he can help you find the best solution.

What Causes TMJ?

Nobody knows exactly what causes some TMJ issues, but often a trauma or injury can cause pain. Some of the most common TMJ issues we see are swelling, deterioration of the joint tissue, or damaged joint tissue due to teeth grinding, stress, or arthritis.

Dr. Hansen will examine your jaw and evaluate your joint tissue. He will give you his recommended treatment and help you decide how to best treat your pain. Often the best treatment is simply a cold compress and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like Advil. If there are more serious issues that can be fixed with treatment, then we may fit you with an orthodontic appliance, retainer, or mouthguard.