Baton Rouge TMJ Injury Lawyer
Since 1975, Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys has provided dedicated personal injury representation to families in Baton Rouge.
Updated: September 10, 2026
Read time: 9 minutes
Dislocated Jaws
Your jaw does a lot of work, specifically the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint attaches the jawbone to the skull, acting like a sliding hinge to move the mouth up and down and back and forth. If you notice popping when you open your jaw, if you have headaches at the temples, or pain and stiffness when chewing or talking for an extended period of time, it’s likely that you have a TMJ disorder. This condition may be genetic, but it can also develop after facial trauma, like you’d see in a car crash or blow to the head, or due to medical malpractice, from a dentist or oral surgeon. If you were in an accident or had a procedure and now have TMJ issues, call Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys. Our Baton Rouge, LA TMJ lawyer can explain your legal options in a personalized consultation.
TMJ Injury Lawyer Baton Rouge, LA
TMJ injuries may arise after blunt trauma to the head or face, dislocating the jaw. These injuries become personal injuries if the injury was due to someone else’s negligence (like a drunk or distracted driver) or malicious action (such as an assault). In these situations, our attorneys pursue legal action against the negligent party, seeking fair compensation for your losses.
TMJ injuries are also common medical malpractice injuries, specifically poorly performed dental work or oral surgery. Excessive force during extraction or a mistake in oral surgery can leave victims like you in chronic pain and with progressively worsening jaw issues, including bite issues due to the misalignment. Poorly placed or maintained orthodontic devices can also lead to TMJ issues.
Our Baton Rouge TMJ lawyer can pursue a claim of medical malpractice against the doctor, surgeon, or other medical professional who improperly performed the procedure, seeking fair compensation for the medical treatment you need to correct the problem, pain and suffering, and all your other losses. We collaborate with medical experts to build our claim and handle all the legal aspects on your behalf.
Why Our Experience Matters In Your TMJ Injury Claim
Medical malpractice claims can be notoriously hard to prove, as there is a lot of gray area. Our Baton Rouge TMJ lawyer has considerable experience overcoming common obstacles to a fair settlement and a demonstrated track record of winning. We also have access to talented, respected expert witnesses who can help bolster your claim.
- Local firm with over 80 years of combined litigation experience and active members of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the Baton Rouge Bar Association
- Founding partner Michael C. Palmintier serves on the Louisiana Medical Malpractice Commission and is a member of the American College of Surgeons
- Recognized by Martindale-Hubbell for outstanding client advocacy and professional excellence
- Active members of the American Association for Justice and the Louisiana Association for Justice
Have you been hurt and developed TMJ problems? Our firm can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys today for a consultation.
Types Of TMJ Injury Cases We Handle
Palmintier Law Group advocates for individuals throughout Louisiana who have sustained significant injuries as a result of another party’s negligence. The firm handles a wide range of personal injury matters, including cases involving facial trauma, jaw fractures, and joint damage that affect daily function. TMJ injuries can interfere with speaking, eating, and sleeping, and they often require ongoing dental or medical care. Claims are prepared with attention to medical documentation, liability evidence, and the financial impact of treatment. Individuals seeking guidance from our Baton Rouge, LA TMJ injury lawyer can pursue compensation for both immediate and long-term losses.
Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Jaw Trauma
Car and truck collisions frequently result in blunt force impact to the face and head. Airbag deployment, steering wheel contact, or sudden deceleration can damage the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures.
In these cases, medical records and imaging studies help establish the connection between the crash and the jaw condition. Our TMJ accident attorney may work with treating providers to document pain levels, restricted movement, and projected treatment costs.
Rear End Collisions And Whiplash Related TMJ Injuries
Rear end crashes often cause rapid forward and backward motion of the head and neck. That movement can place strain on the jaw joint and lead to clicking, locking, or chronic discomfort.
When evaluating these claims, our Baton Rouge TMJ injury lawyer reviews diagnostic reports and accident findings to determine liability. Insurance policies, property damage assessments, and witness statements also play a role in building the case.
Workplace Accidents Affecting The Jaw
Industrial sites, construction zones, and warehouse settings can present hazards that lead to facial injuries. Falling debris, machinery failures, or slip and fall incidents can lead to broken bones or damage to the jaw joint.
In work-related TMJ cases, coordination between workers’ compensation benefits and third-party claims may be required. Our jaw injury attorney can assess whether additional compensation beyond standard workplace benefits is available.
Assault And Physical Altercation Cases
Blows to the face during an altercation can fracture the jaw or disrupt the temporomandibular joint. Victims may require surgical repair, dental reconstruction, or extended therapy to restore function.
These cases often involve both criminal proceedings and civil claims for damages. Our TMJ disorder attorney gathers medical documentation and related evidence to support a claim for financial recovery.
Premises Liability Incidents Leading To Facial Injuries
Unsafe property conditions, such as uneven flooring or poor lighting, can cause serious falls. When a person lands face-first, the jaw joint can absorb significant force.
Our jaw trauma lawsuit lawyer can share that property owners have a responsibility to maintain reasonably safe conditions. When that duty is not met, injured individuals may pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care.
Defective Product And Airbag Deployment Claims
Certain defective products, including malfunctioning airbags or safety equipment, may cause direct facial trauma. Excessive force during deployment can injure the jaw and surrounding tissue.
Product liability cases require review of manufacturing records, recall information, and expert evaluations. These claims seek accountability from manufacturers and other responsible parties.
Taking Action After A TMJ Injury
Baton Rouge TMJ injury lawyer representation focuses on identifying the cause of the injury, documenting medical treatment, and calculating the full scope of damages. Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys handle TMJ cases with careful preparation and clear communication at every stage of the process. Financial recovery can cover the costs of surgery, ongoing treatment, lost wages, and the lasting effects the injury has on everyday life. Those dealing with jaw pain after an accident are encouraged to contact the firm to discuss their situation and take the next step toward financial recovery with our legal support.
12 Common Causes Of TMJ Injuries
Jaw injuries can affect more than just comfort. Problems with the temporomandibular joint, often called TMJ, can lead to pain, clicking, stiffness, and trouble chewing or speaking. Many people do not realize how these injuries happen or how they connect to an accident, but your Baton Rouge, LA TMJ injury lawyer can help you investigate the specifics. At Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys, we’ll use our 80+ years of experience to walk you through your next steps. Keep reading to see the common causes of TMJ injuries, and contact us today.
- Car Accidents
A crash can cause the head and jaw to move suddenly. This force may strain or damage the joint, and you’ll need an oral injury lawyer on your side if you want to pay those medical bills.
- Direct Blows To The Face
Being struck in the jaw during a fall, sports activity, or other incident can affect how the joint moves. This type of impact can lead to pain and limited movement over time.
- Slip And Fall Incidents
A fall can cause the jaw to snap shut or shift out of place. Even if the main injury is elsewhere, the joint may still be affected by the force. Contact your facial trauma lawyer to get started.
- Workplace Accidents
Jobs that involve physical labor or moving equipment can lead to incidents where the jaw is impacted. Falls, collisions, or struck-by events may all play a part.
- Sports Injuries
Contact sports and recreational activities carry a risk of facial impact. Without proper protection, the jaw can take the force of a hit.
- Whiplash Related Injuries
Sudden back-and-forth movement of the head can place stress on the jaw. This type of motion is common in rear-end crashes and may lead to TMJ symptoms.
- Physical Assault
An assault that involves blows to the head or face can damage the joint. These injuries may not be fully clear until pain or stiffness develops later.
- Dental Procedures Or Errors
In some cases, dental work that places stress on the jaw for long periods can lead to joint problems. Improper technique or positioning may make the issue worse, but your Baton Rouge TMJ injury attorney can help you get some closure and compensation.
- Repetitive Jaw Strain
Clenching or grinding the teeth over time can place pressure on the joint. While this may not start with a single event, it can still lead to lasting problems.
- Poorly Fitted Protective Gear
Helmets or mouthguards that do not fit well may fail to absorb impact. This can leave the jaw more exposed during an accident.
- Degenerative Joint Changes After Trauma
An injury can lead to changes in the joint over time. What starts as mild discomfort may develop into ongoing pain or limited movement.
- Delayed Symptoms After An Accident
Some people do not notice jaw issues right away. As your TMJ claims lawyer can explain, pain, clicking, or stiffness may appear days or weeks after the event, which can make the connection harder to recognize.
Contact Our Team Today
At Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys, we’ve secured billions of dollars for our clients, and we’re ready to help you next. If you’re dealing with jaw pain after an accident, reach out to our team to discuss your situation with a Baton Rouge TMJ injury lawyer today.
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