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TMJ Disorder

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TMJ Disorder

Book An Assessment

The Most Experienced TMJ Orthodontic Practice in
St. Louis

If you suffer from TMJ disorder, you know the daily burden it adds. You probably also know that finding true relief can seem impossible. It is possible. It’s just that most practices don’t specialize in this specific disorder like we do.

For over 30 years, we’ve successfully treated thousands of TMJ patients. From simple, easy-to-treat conditions to more extreme cases, we have a proven track record of putting an end to our patients’ chronic pain and giving them a fresh lease on their quality of life.

As the most experienced TMJ practice in St. Louis, we’re fully equipped to do the same for you.

Book an Assessment

Treatment for TMJ Disorder Explained

At Moshiri Orthodontics we believe in conservative management of TMJD, (Temporal Mandibular Joint Disorder).

Our treatment philosophy combines two phases of treatment:

PHASE 1

The initial phase incorporates splint therapy, combined with intensive physical medicine modalities (i.e. chiropractor or physical/massage therapists).

PHASE 2

The second phase may involve modification of the patient’s bite via orthodontics (with or without jaw or joint surgery), restorative dentistry, or any other necessary treatment.

A thorough assessment will identify what treatment plan is best suited for your individual needs.

What Is TMJ Disorder—and How Do You Treat It?

Millions of Americans suffer from TMJ disorder every year. However, despite the prevalence of this often painful condition, it’s often misunderstood, and education on the subject can be scary. That’s why we’ve compiled the most important questions about TMJ disorder so you can get the answers you need in one place.

Read More

What Is TMJ Disorder—and How Do You Treat It?

Millions of Americans suffer from TMJ disorder every year. However, despite the prevalence of this often painful condition, it’s often misunderstood, and education on the subject can be scary. That’s why we’ve compiled the most important questions about TMJ disorder so you can get the answers you need in one place.

Read More

Testimonials

The Moshiris are THE experts at treating TMJ and providing outstanding, state-of-the art orthodontic care. My TMJ is cured, and my teeth are beautiful. The team is always professional and respectful. So glad I was referred to this exceptional practice.

– Saraann Parker

Testimonials

I had a challenging case that no other orthodontist would touch without my consent to surgery, but [the Moshiris] took another look. They considered other viable, much less invasive and less expensive routes. Together, we landed on one, and two-and-a-half years later, my bone is corrected, my jaw muscle fatigue is a thing of the past, and my smile is even more beautiful than before.

– Charice N.

Testimonials

I came in with miserable jaw pain and could not yawn, sneeze, sleep—or even eat. After 2 years of treatment, I am pain free and extremely happy with the results!

– Lissa Murphy Sauer

Testimonials

I came to Moshiri Orthodontics with TMJ. My jaw would lock open while eating, and the pain was miserable. Within weeks of beginning treatment, my pain subsided. I am now pain free and have a beautiful smile. Thanks doctors Moshiri!

– Susan Peters Wilkins

Testimonials

I had been to two  oral surgeons and an ENT specialist regarding my TMJ and accompanying pain. Things were not looking good. I came to Moshiri Orthodontics, and Dr. Maz said he could help me by using Invisalign to realign my bite. Two years later, my bite is corrected, and I am completely pain free.

– Mary Walker

Testimonials

The Moshiris are THE experts at treating TMJ and providing outstanding, state-of-the art orthodontic care. My TMJ is cured, and my teeth are beautiful. The team is always professional and respectful. So glad I was referred to this exceptional practice.

– Saraann Parker

Testimonials

I had a challenging case that no other orthodontist would touch without my consent to surgery, but [the Moshiris] took another look. They considered other viable, much less invasive and less expensive routes. Together, we landed on one, and two-and-a-half years later, my bone is corrected, my jaw muscle fatigue is a thing of the past, and my smile is even more beautiful than before.

– Charice N.

Testimonials

I came in with miserable jaw pain and could not yawn, sneeze, sleep—or even eat. After 2 years of treatment, I am pain free and extremely happy with the results!

– Lissa Murphy Sauer

Testimonials

I came to Moshiri Orthodontics with TMJ. My jaw would lock open while eating, and the pain was miserable. Within weeks of beginning treatment, my pain subsided. I am now pain free and have a beautiful smile. Thanks doctors Moshiri!

– Susan Peters Wilkins

Testimonials

I had been to two  oral surgeons and an ENT specialist regarding my TMJ and accompanying pain. Things were not looking good. I came to Moshiri Orthodontics, and Dr. Maz said he could help me by using Invisalign to realign my bite. Two years later, my bite is corrected, and I am completely pain free.

– Mary Walker

Your First Visit

Our consultations for TMJ disorder are a bit more extensive than our standard consultations.
  • First, we’ll conduct a thorough review of your health history.
  • Then, we’ll perform a head and neck postural exam, a joint loading test, and a muscular exam.
  • Lastly, we’ll take a look at your teeth to see how best to bring you true relief.

Since this disorder is generally classified as a medical treatment and is a longer, more comprehensive appointment than our standard consultations, there is an associated fee. However, you may be able to bill the one-time fee of $380 to your medical insurance. We’ll go over the details of your insurance to see what option is best for you.

Book an Assessment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint. This joint is located in front of the ear, right where the jawbone and skull join together. TMJ disorder often comes with painful and even disabling symptoms which are often mistaken for other conditions, such as arthritis or sinus problems.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

Since a combination of factors can cause TMJ disorder, the symptoms may vary widely. Some patients may have one symptom, while others experience another—or a combination of several.
Symptoms can include:
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Soreness in front of the ear
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• A tender jaw
• Pain behind the eyes
• Pressure or pain in the ears
• Popping, grinding, or clicking sound with pain when opening and closing the mouth or chewing
• Tooth pain without any clear explanation
• Neck ache and/or stiffness
• A burning sensation in the mouth and/or tongue
• Restricted range of jaw movement or “locking” of the jaw in an open or closed position
• An earache without an infection, sometimes spreading to the face

Do I Have TMJ disorder?

The only way to know for sure if you have TMJ disorder is to schedule an examination with a professional. If you have severe headaches, jaw or tooth pain, or other symptoms, and your doctor cannot find the cause or offer you satisfactory treatment, it’s a good idea to find out if you are suffering from TMJ disorder.

 

Is there a fee for a TMJ disorder consultation?

Yes. Because a TMJ disorder evaluation is generally classified as a medical treatment and requires a longer, more comprehensive appointment than our standard consultations, there is a fee. However, you may be able to bill the one-time fee of $380 to your medical insurance. We’ll go over the details of your insurance to see what option is best for you.

Can TMJ disorder be treated successfully?

Yes. For more than 30 years, we’ve helped thousands of patients dealing with the daily struggles of TMJ disorder. As the most experienced TMJ orthodontic practice in St. Louis, we can give you the relief you need. From simple, easy-to-treat conditions to more extreme cases, we have a proven track record of successfully treating TMJ disorder.

What happens if my TMJ disorder goes untreated?
If the underlying cause of TMJ disorder is not treated, the problem can become chronic, creating more problems and making treatment even more complicated. Over time, arthritic degeneration may develop in the jaw joint. It’s best to get it diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
What types of treatment are common for TMJ disorder?
No matter your condition, a thorough dental examination is the first step toward finding a solution. Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include realigning teeth with braces or Invisalign or using bite guards and muscle relaxants.
At Moshiri Orthodontics, we approach TMJ disorder through two phases of treatment:
The initial phase incorporates splint therapy, combined with intensive physical medicine modalities chiropractor or physical/massage therapists). 
The second phase may involve modification of the patient’s bite via orthodontics or without jaw or joint surgery), restorative dentistry, or any other necessary treatment.
Do most patients with TMJ disorder need surgery?

No. Most TMJ disorder cases can be treated with much more conservative treatments. At Moshiri Orthodontics, we avoid surgery unless it is absolutely necessary.

What if I need jaw surgery to treat my TMJ?

In extreme cases, jaw surgery can make all the difference for patients suffering from TMJ disorder. If it is necessary, we will coordinate with your dental specialists to ensure it’s done with the highest level of care.