706 Dekalb Pike
Blue Bell, PA 19422-1214
(610) 272-0828
TMJ Philadelphia
Dr. Siegel's dental care includes the diagnosis and treatment of jaw disorders, more commonly known as TMJ. In addition to his training in general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Siegel is also uniquely qualified to handle tooth and jaw alignment, having completed hundreds of hours of advanced dental training in the field of neuromuscular dentistry.
The term "TMJ" stands for "Temporomandibular Joint". This is the joint on either side of the head that allows the lower jaw to open, close and move sideways when chewing and speaking. Everyone has two of them, and they are located about one centimeter in front of the ears.
Dr. Siegel has had excellent success with many patients who previously suffered from migraines, jaw pain, popping in their jaws or grinding and other symptoms associated with TMJ. You can read more about Dr. Siegel's approach to treating TMJ/TMD and testimonials from his patients below.
If you think that you have TMJ and you live in the Philadelphia area, call us at 610-228-4260 to make an appointment or request an appointment online. If you have any questions at all, don't hestitate to call or email us.
More information about TMJ
What Is TMJ?
TMJ is the abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint syndrome or disorder. These joints connect the lower jaw to the skull and allow the jaw to move. When the teeth, facial muscles, and temporomandibular joints are out of alignment, the symptoms arise of TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome or disorder, also called TMD). When these joints do not work properly, you may experience pain, headaches, swelling, clicking, cracking, difficulty moving the jaw, ringing in the ears, or difficulty biting.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
This video by a colleage of Dr. Siegel who has the same training, explains TMD in a very visual and fun way.
What Are The Symptoms of TMJ / TMD?
TMJ/TMD symptoms include:
- TMJ Headaches (often misdiagnosed as migraines)
- Shoulder, neck or back pain
- Numbness in arms and fingers
- Facial pain
- Jaw pain
- Clicking or popping jaw
- Clenching or grinding teeth
- Ringing ears (tinnitus)
- Congested ears
TMJ Diagnosis
This video describes the TMJ diagnosis process using neuromuscular dentistry.
TMJ Treatment Options
If you are diagnosed with TMJ, Dr. Siegel will determine the best treatment for you which would typically include:
- Relieving the pain and muscle spasms. One way to do this is to use a technology called ULF-TENS which stands for Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation. ULF-TENS simply relaxes the jaw muscles with gentle massaging. This increases blood flow and stimulates the body’s natural production of endorphins.
- Stabilizing the bite. Using the K7 Evaluation System, a computer that analyzes your bite, Dr. Siegel will find the ideal position for your jaw to rest in. The next step is to then stabilize the bite to achieve this new position. In many cases this can be done by using an orthotic – a temporary plastic device that fits over the teeth (sometimes called a "bite splint"). Once the bite is stabilized, long-term management can begin.
- Long-term solutions. There are many ways to keep the permanent bite in alignment including reshaping the enamel of the teeth, installing permanent orthotic devices, installing reconstructive crowns or with braces. All of these solutions to permanently correct the bite have been used with success.
There are many treatment options for TMJ / TMD disorders. The best way to find the treatment plan that is right for you is to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Siegel.
If you're looking for TMJ treatment in Philadelphia, call us at 610-228-4260 to make an appointment or request an appointment online. If you have any questions about TMJ treatment, don't hesitate to call or email us.
Philadelphia TMJ Patient Testimonial
"I can’t believe that dental work could help me achieve a pain-free and drug-free life."
"I would like to extend my gratitude to you and your staff. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your patience and kindness. I must tell your patients my story so they can learn how much you and your staff have helped me overcome serious pain and headaches. I can’t believe that dental work could help me achieve a pain-free and drug-free life.
"My story is simple; I was in severe pain due to headaches, facial and neck pain. I had a feeling after being sent from doctor to doctor that my problem was dental. After seeing several top dentists and neurologists I was going around in circles. The pain had gotten so bad I could not drive or eat. I was put on so many medications I did not know where to turn. While I was on the computer I found your web site and it was a like a light went on. There was an explanation for my pain, TMJ and TMD. I called your office and your staff got me an appointment the next day.
"I could not believe that every pain I had could be caused by my bite being off. This was the answer I was looking for. I must say Dr. Siegel was very professional and listened to my story with care and compassion. He was the only doctor I had been to that offered hope to my situation. Within several weeks I had a dental retainer that was designed to fit over my bottom teeth. . My headaches went away a week later. We decided a full mouth restoration would be the way to change my bite. We decided to use veneers over my teeth to open the bite and change the position of my jaw. I did the upper teeth first and then several months later I did the bottom teeth. I now have a beautiful smile and have no more pain.
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart you were the only doctor who took my case and said I can help you. I placed all my trust with you and your staff. I can’t say how much you have changed my life for the better. I just wanted to let you know how much you have meant in my life and what a great doctor you are. If any of your patients ever need a reference please do not hesitate to call me!"
- Wendy Fischer
Philadelphia TMJ Patient
If you suffer from TMJ and you live in the Philadelphia area, call us at 610-228-4260 to make an appointment or request an appointment online. Have TMJ questions? No problem. Just call or email us today.
