At Valley Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Little Rock, Dr. Thomas Inman Jr. provides specialized evaluation and treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. His background in oral and maxillofacial surgery includes extensive training in head and neck anatomy, allowing for precise diagnosis and management of complex jaw conditions that affect daily comfort and function.
TMJ disorders involve the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull, which plays a critical role in chewing, speaking, and facial movement. When this joint or its surrounding muscles become strained or misaligned, patients may experience pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving the jaw.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can develop from a variety of causes, including arthritis, jaw injury, teeth grinding, stress-related muscle tension, or structural irregularities. Symptoms often include:
- Jaw pain or soreness, especially near the ears
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or limited jaw movement
- Headaches, neck pain, or facial discomfort
Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, accurate diagnosis is essential to determining the most effective treatment plan.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Dr. Inman begins each case with a comprehensive clinical examination and imaging using Cone Beam CT technology. This allows for detailed visualization of the joint structure, helping identify inflammation, bone changes, or misalignment. In some cases, additional diagnostic tools such as MRI or bite analysis may be used to confirm findings.
By combining advanced imaging with a thorough understanding of jaw function, Dr. Inman tailors each treatment plan to address the underlying cause rather than just the symptoms.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
Treatment varies depending on severity and cause. Most patients benefit from non-surgical therapies such as:
- Custom oral appliances to reduce strain on the jaw
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Lifestyle modifications to limit jaw clenching or stress-related tension
- Anti-inflammatory medications for short-term relief
When conservative methods are not sufficient, surgical options may be considered. These can include minimally invasive procedures to remove inflammation or realign the joint, performed with precision to preserve natural movement and comfort or can involve total temporomandibular joint replacement if the disease is severe.
Why Choose Valley Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Patients in Little Rock turn to Valley Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for TMJ care that combines clinical insight with advanced technology. The practice is known for:
- Cone Beam CT–guided diagnostics for precise visualization
- Experience in managing both functional and structural jaw disorders
- Sedation options for patient comfort during procedures
- Convenient location near Pleasant Valley Golf Course
- Care led by a hospital trained Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with extensive surgical experience
Contact Valley Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Persistent jaw discomfort should not be ignored. To schedule an evaluation or learn more about TMJ disorder treatment, contact Valley Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Little Rock at (501) 444-2429.