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TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder:
South Attleboro Dentist | James M. Phelan, DMD | Exquisite Smiles

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ Disorder): Dr. James Phelan, Exquisite SmilesTemporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD or TMD), or TMJ syndrome, is an umbrella term covering acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the mandible to the skull, in short, jaw pain. The Temporomandibular Joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. Any probelm that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in a TMJ disorder.

Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

When muscles and joints do not work properly the muscles will often go into a spasm or cramp. This spasm can become cyclical that results in tissue damage, pain, muscle tenderness and more spasm.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Causes (TMJ Disorder Causes) can include:

  • trauma
  • arthritis
  • severe stress
  • teeth clenching
  • teeth grinding

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Symptoms (TMJ Disorder Symptoms) can include:

  • Pain in or around the ear sometimes spreading to the face
  • tenderness of the jaw muscles
  • clicking or popping noises when one opens or closes mouth
  • difficulty in opening one's mouth
  • jaws that "get stuck", "lock" or "go out"
  • pain brought on by yawning, chewing or opening the mouth very widely
  • certain types of headaches and neckaches

What to do now - treatment

Dr. Phelan upon a full review of your dental history can recommend a course of treatment. Treatments vary depending on your individual diagnosis. Contact Dr. Phelan today!


We serve these Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts areas:

  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Pawtucket, RI
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Providence, RI
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder South Attleboro, MA
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder North Attleboro, MA
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Cumberland, RI
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Lincoln, RI
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Attleboro, MA
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Rhode Island
  • TMJ - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Massachusetts

Contact Us Today 


Phone/ Emergency: 508.761.5320

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Our goal is to help you achieve optimum dental care. It may take some time to arrive at your "exquisite smile," but by following a preplanned course, with each of us doing our part, we can look forward to a lifetime of good dental health and a pleasant association.

Here is a non-exhusastive list of our services with some helpful information:


About Dr. James Phelan, Exquisite Smiles

Our practice philosophy centers heavily on prevention. Taking care of your teeth before problems develop means you will spend less time and money in the dental chair. Our goal is "to serve our patients with the extensive knowledge and expertise we have gained in our industry, while continually offering them the finest in customer service."

Let us help you appreciate the fine art of dentistry, as we care for your teeth as if they were our own.

Vision Statement:
"To improve the quality of our patients' lives by working together to help them achieve a natural, exquisite smile."

Mission Statement:
"As highly dedicated dental professionals, it is our relentless pursuit to develop a genuine caring relationship with all of our patients. It begins by spending quality time understanding who they are, physically, mentally, and emotionally; listening to their fears, hopes, and needs regarding their dental care; and providing them with the highest level of care, while educating them on the innovative and technological advances available to dentistry. Working together, we help our patients rediscover the unique aesthetic to their exquisite smile."

Your smile is worth a thousand words... show off your exquisite smile!