TMJ & TMD
Pain in the jaw and the surrounding muscles is often referred to as “TMJ.” TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which physically attaches the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorders. These are disorders of the jaw and the muscles that control it. When some refer to “having TMJ,” they are actually dealing with “TMD.” W. Daniel Billington, DMD, MS, FAAOP, will provide diagnosis after a thorough evaluation and offer an array of treatments to treat your particular condition. Call 518-482-2728 for an appointment in our Albany, NY, office.
Symptoms of TMD
TMD symptoms may involve the temporomandibular joint TMJ (jaw joint) and the surrounding jaw muscles, and patients may notice symptoms that flare with chewing or stress. Patients may experience jaw pain, clicking or popping, limited jaw movement, bite changes, and tenderness around the joint. Facial Pain, headaches, and ear fullness may also occur, and these symptoms can affect daily health.
Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects chewing, speaking, and sleep.
Diagnosis of TMD
The first step in diagnosing the cause of TMD is a physical examination of the jaw, mouth, bite, and teeth. Dr. Billington may order full face x-rays to visualize what cannot be easily observed, such as the jawbones, temporomandibular joints, and teeth. Additional testing may include an MRI or CT scan. An MRI will show the position of the disc within the TMJ, and a CT scan shows the bony details of the joint.
Treatment
TMJ treatment often begins with conservative care based on your diagnosis. Dr. Billington may recommend a custom oral appliance such as a night guard, along with behavior modification and relaxation strategies to reduce stress on the joint. Medicine may be used to help manage pain and inflammation and provide short-term relief as the jaw and muscles recover.
Depending on symptoms, medicine may also support sleep and muscle relaxation so patients can tolerate self-care and oral appliance use. In some cases, therapy focused on jaw function may be included as part of treatment planning, with the goal of improving comfort, function, and daily work activities for patients.
Other Treatments May Include, but Are Not Limited To:
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
• Ultrasound
• Trigger Point Injections
• Laser Therapy
• Surgery
• Therapeutic Botox Injections
• & More
Finding the Right Provider for TMJ Treatment
Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis. It may include medications (oral, topical, or injectables), behavior modification strategies, and stress and anxiety management. In addition, Dr. Billington may fabricate a custom oral appliance. Dr Billington uses multiple styles of appliances, and he will discuss with you which one is most appropriate for your conditions.
Other Treatments May Include, but Are Not Limited To:
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
• Ultrasound
• Trigger Point Injections
• Laser Therapy
• Surgery
• Therapeutic Botox Injections
• & More
Surgery for TMJ Disorders
Surgery may be considered in selected cases when non-surgical TMJ treatment has not provided relief, or when imaging shows structural concerns involving the joint, disc, or bone. This may apply to severe, persistent jaw pain, locking, or progressive limitation of jaw movement that does not respond to treatment. A careful diagnosis is essential, and your care team may review prior procedures, medications, and injections before recommending surgical treatment. When needed, doctors may also discuss imaging-guided injections and, in select cases, surgery as part of a broader plan to treat TMJ disorders and protect long-term health.
W. Daniel Billington, DMD, MS, FAAOP
2 Executive Park Drive
Albany, NY 12203
Phone: 518-482-2728
Fax: 518-482-7040
Email: billingtondmd@gmail.com
Facebook: W Daniel Billington, DMD, MS, PLLC
Instagram: billingtonofp
HOURS
Monday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed