Dr. Radwa Sobieh holds a Master of Science in TMD and sleep apnea from the University of Minnesota. At Winchester Dental Studio she diagnoses and treats jaw joint and jaw muscle problems for patients from Winchester and nearby Virginia communities.
Winchester TMD Treatment & Orofacial Pain – Dr. Radwa Sobieh
What is TMD?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the temporal bones on each side of the skull to the mandible, or lower jawbone. These complex, hinge-like joints allow the mouth to open and close, move back and forth, and slide from side to side. Muscle, bone, and cartilage work together for easy and comfortable facial movement so we can speak, eat, swallow, yawn, and smile.
When the joint doesn’t function as smoothly as it should, the limited movement and discomfort which result could be caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can develop due to arthritis, bruxism (tooth grinding), genetics, an injury or infection near the jaw, a misaligned bite, or a combination of factors. Sometimes the cause is unclear. TMD could be indicated if you suffer from any of these symptoms:
- Painful chewing
- Persistent pain and discomfort around the TMJ or in the face or neck
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Changes in bite alignment
- Muscle spasms near the jaw
- Clicking, popping, or grating noises when the jaw moves
- Jaws that are limited in movement or lock open or shut
If you suspect you might have TMD, your dentist or doctor will conduct a careful examination of your temporomandibular joints, their range of movement, and your head and neck. When needed, imaging studies can be used for further examination of the joint.
TMD Treatments
Often, conservative treatment is effective in treating TMD. Your dentist or doctor will tailor treatment to the cause and symptoms of your TMD:
- Use of over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and moist heat compresses
- Behavior modification for habits which can cause jaw pain (gum chewing, jaw clenching, nail biting, poor posture)
- Techniques for relaxation and stress relief
- Muscle relaxants, corticosteroids, or anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- A custom-fitted mouthguard, bite plate, or bite splint to protect teeth and jaw from the pressures of tooth grinding
- Dental treatment to improve minor bite misalignment
- Orthodontic treatment to treat more serious bite misalignment
If necessary, surgical procedures can provide more extensive examinations and treatment. These include:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure performed under anesthesia, which uses a thin tube with a video lens and light inserted through a small incision in front of the ear. This technology allows the surgeon to get a close look at the joint and the area surrounding it. Arthroscopic surgery can repair some types of TMJ damage.
- Arthroplasty: Surgery performed under anesthesia, can repair, replace, or reposition damaged parts of the joint. Arthroplasty can be used to remove bony growths, repair or replace the articular disc that cushions your joint, and access areas that an arthroscopy can’t.
Jaw pain isn’t always due to TMD, and many cases of TMD are temporary. But frequent discomfort, limited movement, or any other persistent symptoms are a good reason to see your dentist or doctor for a thorough examination and diagnosis. Prompt treatment will help prevent further damage to the joint and make facial and jaw movement comfortable once again.
Scheduling Your Consultation
We’ll answer all your questions at your consultation. Schedule yours at our Winchester office.
Our Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Our Phone:
Our Address
- 650 Cedar Creek Grade #205, Winchester, VA 22601, United States
TMD and TMJ FAQs
Is TMD the same as TMJ?
Not quite. TMJ is the name of the jaw joint itself. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) is the name for problems with the joint and the muscles that move it. Most people say “TMJ” for both.
Will TMD go away on its own?
Mild jaw pain often settles within a few weeks with rest, soft foods, heat or ice and less clenching. If the pain keeps coming back, your jaw locks, or the clicking comes with pain, get it checked so it doesn’t get worse.
Does a night guard help TMJ pain?
For many people, yes. A custom night guard takes pressure off the joint and muscles if you clench or grind in your sleep, and protects your teeth from wear.
Can Botox help with TMJ pain?
Botox can relax overworked jaw muscles and ease pain from clenching and grinding when other treatments haven’t helped enough. Learn more about Botox for TMJ, jaw clenching and teeth grinding.
Do I need a TMJ specialist?
Many TMJ problems can be treated by a dentist with TMD training. Dr. Sobieh will examine your jaw, explain what’s causing the pain and tell you if care from another specialist would help.
At Winchester Dental Studio, Dr. Radwa Sobieh and our dental team create healthy and beautiful smiles.
Our dental services combine modern dental technology with gentle, personal care. Whether you need a routine checkup, emergency care, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants, root canal treatment or sedation, our team takes time to listen and explain your options, so you feel comfortable at every visit.
Proudly serving Winchester, Stephens City, Stephenson City, Boyce Town, Clear Brook, Gainesboro, Hayfield, Nain, White Hall, and Round Hill, Virginia, we're your trusted dentists for your dental health needs.
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