What Is TMJ and TMD?
The “Tempromandibular Joint” (TMJ), or jaw joint, enables the opening and closing movements of the jaw. Tempromandibular Disorders (TMD) occur as a result of problems within the structures of the joint, known as temporomandibular joint internal derangements. TMD may alter the following:
- Growth disturbances of the lower jaw in children, including degenerative changes
- Alteration of the occlusion: skeletal problem with the bite
- Distortion of the facial skeleton (chin retrognathia, chin laterognathia)
- Orthodontic Relapse
- Presence of TMJ pain
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Click, popping or lock joint
- Occlusal muscle pain.
- Sore muscles or migraines.
- Osteoarthritis & rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ
TMD diagnosis
Dr. Calkins provides a comprehensive TMJ exam, using advanced imaging to create three-dimensional perspectives of the joints. Dr. Calkins evaluates the foundation of your articulation through MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), the gold standard in medicine for imaging of the TMJ. It allows Dr. Calkins to see the soft tissue and the bones of the face. As a result, she’ll be able to assess the following components of your TMJ:
- Muscle
- Disk
- Retrodiskal attachment
- Bone
- Capsule
- Synovium
- Collateral ligaments
During your examination, Dr. Calkins will discuss your diagnosis and explain recommended treatment options.
Schedule your TMJ consultation
If you have jaw pain, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. If you’re experiencing changes in your bite without pain, or orthodontic relapse in your lower jaw,
We are proud to provide advanced TMJ care for children and adults in the Reston, Herndon, McLean, Falls Church, Vienna, Ashburn, Leesburg, Great Falls and Washington D.C. metro area.
Our team refers for Magnetic Resonance Imaging to MRI of Reston, with radiologist Dr. Karan Lotfi.
