TMJ (temporomandibular joint) injuries after a car accident

Auto accident victims who experience a blow to the head may end up with "TMJ," says Michigan personal injury attorney

The pain, discomfort and functional limitations caused by "TMJ," formally known as a temporomandibular joint injury, can be debilitating and disruptive to an auto accident victim’s life.

Below are frequently asked questions about TMJ and car accidents. For help from a personal injury attorney now, feel free to call Michigan Auto Law at (800) 777-0028. There's no fee or obligation.

• What is the TMJ, or temporomandibular joint?
• What is a TMJ injury that a Michigan auto accident victim might suffer?
• Can a car or truck accident cause a TMJ injury?
• How do doctors and dentists diagnose TMJ injuries in Michigan auto accident victims?
• What are the treatment options for a TMJ injury?

Q. What is the TMJ, or temporomandibular joint?
A. The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint is the joint where a person’s lower jawbone meets the skull. Located on each side of a person’s head, this joint allows a person to talk, chew and yawn.

Q. What is a TMJ injury that a Michigan auto accident victim might suffer?
A. An auto accident victim who suffers a TMJ injury may experience any of the following symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw,
• Aching pain in and around one’s ear,
• Difficulty or pain with chewing,
• Facial pain,
• The TMJ locks, making it difficult to open or close one’s mouth,
• Limitation of movement,
• Clicking (when associated with pain or limited movement),
• An uneven bite.

Q. Can a car or truck accident cause a TMJ injury?
A. Yes. To the extent that an automobile accident involves a blow or impact to the head and/or TMJ area, a crash can cause a TMJ injury.

Q. How do doctors and dentists diagnose TMJ injuries in Michigan auto accident victims?
A. If a car accident victim’s doctor or dentist suspects the victim is suffering from a TMJ injury, the doctor or dentist may order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, CT (Computerized Tomography) scans or MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Q. What are the treatment options for a TMJ injury?
A. There are several levels of treatment for a TMJ injury that a patient may be prescribed, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• First, there are medications, such as painkillers, antidepressants, muscle relaxants and steroid injections.
• Second, auto accident victims may be prescribed therapies involving a bite guard and/or cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Third, a doctor or dentist may recommend that a person suffering from a TMJ injury undergo corrective dental treatment or, possibly, repair or replacement surgery.

Call Michigan Auto Law. Our personal injury attorneys are here for you.

If you've suffered TMJ due to another person's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering.

There's no downside to contacting an injury attorney with questions about your accident. Call us at (800) 777-0028. You can also fill out our consultation form.

The call and the advice is free, and we're always here to help.