TMJ Treatment – Virgin Islands

Temporomandibular joint pain can be excruciating. It can make a simple action such as eating or yawning become a dreaded event. It can really impact your quality of life.

Do you have unbearable, sharp pain that originates from your jaw and expands across your face? If so, a TMJ specialist can help.

At Virgin Islands Neurology, we have helped many find relief from their temporomandibular disorders. Schedule an appointment at our U.S. Virgin Islands office today!

Naturally, you may have some questions such as “what causes this type of disorder?” and “what treatments are most effective?” You can find the answers to those questions and more below.

A man needing TMJ treatment in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

TMJ Disorders

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw joint (mandible) to your temporal bone. You have two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of your jaw.

Your TMJ, along with several of your jaw muscles, gives your mandible the ability to move in different directions. When these structures are aligned properly, you can carry out everyday functions such as talking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning.

Temporomandibular joint disorders are disorders of your jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and nerves. This can result in acute pain or chronic facial pain. If you have TMJ dysfunction, you may experience severe pain.

A patient discussing TMJ treatment with his doctor at Virgin Islands Neurology.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

Sometimes the cause of a TMJ disorder is not always clear. However, TMJ problems can occur due to:

  • Jaw clenching/teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Jaw spasms and strain
  • Genetics
  • Injury  
  • A dislocated jaw joint
  • Misaligned TMJ disc
  • Stress
  • An improper bite


Other risk factors could also include:

  • Degenerative joint disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Common TMJ Symptoms

Some of the most common TMJ symptoms include the following:

How Is a TMJ Disorder Treated?

Your temporomandibular joint treatment will depend on the following factors:

  • Your age
  • Health
  • The severity of your symptoms


Before recommending a surgical procedure, your specialists may suggest non-surgical treatment. These nonsurgical treatment options may include the following:

  • Applying moist heat or cold pack
  • Eating soft foods (Avoid chewing gum)
  • Stress-relief techniques
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Wearing mouth guards
  • Limit extreme jaw movements (clenching, singing, yawning, etc.)  


If your pain still does not subside, your specialist may recommend:

When Is Surgical Intervention Needed to Correct a TMJ Disorder?

If your temporomandibular joint pain persists despite conservative treatment, dental surgery may be recommended to relieve your TMJ pain.

There are three types of TMJ surgery:

  1. Arthrocentesis
  2. Arthroscopy
  3. Open-joint surgery


Your specialist will let you know which would be the best surgical option for your needs.

What Happens If My TMJ Disorder Is Left Untreated?

If left untreated, your TMJ disorder may lead to significant health problems, including:

  • Chronic pain
  • Inflammation
  • Insomnia
  • Sleep apnea
  • Depression
  • Anxiety


TMJ issues can deeply impact your quality of life. However, you do not have to suffer in silence.

Our highly trained specialist at Virgin Islands Neurology can provide you with the pain relief you deserve so that you can return to doing the things you enjoy. Schedule an appointment at our U.S. Virgin Islands office today to find the comfort you’ve been looking for!