What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) refers to the jaw joint itself, while TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder) is the medical term for the group of conditions causing pain and dysfunction in this joint and the surrounding muscles. "TMJ" is commonly used colloquially to refer to the disorder.
Is TMJ treatment at FMS Dental painful?
Most TMJ treatments at FMS Dental are non-invasive and virtually painless. TENS therapy, laser therapy, and splint therapy are gentle procedures. The diagnostic scans (EMG, jaw tracking, T-SCAN) involve no discomfort whatsoever. Our philosophy is to treat with the least invasive approach first.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Treatment duration varies by condition severity. Mild TMD may improve in a few weeks with splint therapy. Chronic or complex cases may require 3–6 months of active treatment followed by a maintenance phase. Your specialist will provide a personalised timeline after the initial diagnostic evaluation at FMS Dental.
Can TMJ cause headaches and ear pain?
Yes. Chronic headaches, migraines, and ear pain (otalgia) are among the most common symptoms of TMJ disorders. The TMJ is anatomically very close to the ear canal, and jaw muscle tension frequently radiates pain to the temples, forehead, ears, neck, and shoulders. Many patients with undiagnosed TMD suffer from headaches for years.
Does FMS Dental treat sleep apnea with dentistry?
Yes. FMS Dental's NMD team assesses sleep issues through comprehensive questionnaires and examination, and may recommend an overnight sleep study (polysomnography). Oral appliance therapy with custom-fabricated mandibular advancement devices is available as an effective non-CPAP treatment option for mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
What is a Dental Power Splint for athletes?
A Dental Power Splint is a custom orthopaedic jaw appliance based on neuromuscular dentistry principles, designed specifically for athletes. It improves jaw alignment and vertebrae alignment, enhances balance, increases upper body strength, and reduces the risk of orofacial sports injuries. It is custom-fabricated in FMS Dental's in-house lab.
Can bruxism (teeth grinding) cause TMJ disorder?
Yes. Bruxism (grinding or clenching teeth) is both a cause and a consequence of TMD. Habitual grinding places enormous stress on the TMJ, articular disc, and masticatory muscles, often leading to or worsening jaw disorders. FMS Dental treats bruxism with custom night guards, TENS therapy, and neuromuscular rehabilitation.
What is T-SCAN and how does it help TMJ treatment?
T-SCAN is the world's only clinically recognised digital occlusal analysis system. It measures bite force distribution in real time, identifying premature contacts, high-force areas, and occlusal imbalances. At FMS Dental, T-SCAN guides precise bite adjustment and splint fabrication, ensuring occlusal balance that relieves TMJ stress.
Does FMS Dental see international patients for TMJ treatment?
Yes. FMS International Dental Centre at Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad is an IMTJ-awarded international dental clinic serving medical tourism patients from the UK, USA, Middle East, and beyond. The centre has dedicated international patient care services including visa assistance, travel support, and online pre-consultation facilities.
How do I book a TMJ consultation at FMS Dental Hyderabad?
You can book a TMJ/TMD consultation by calling FMS Dental at 040-22221111 or +91 88850 60770, emailing
[email protected], or visiting the FMS Dental website to use the online appointment booking system. The flagship TMD clinic is located at Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.