TMD Treatment Near You
Do you suffer from frequent headaches, earaches, and jaw tension? Does your jaw click or pop when you open and close your mouth? These aches and pains may be related to the jaw joint known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles around it. These conditions are often referred to as TMD, a short form of temporomandibular joint disorders.
Signs and Symptoms of TMD
The term TMD is an umbrella term that refers to a wide variety of conditions that can be mild or severe. Some patients have symptoms and can still function at full capacity, while others require extensive treatment to alleviate their pain. Some signs of TMD include:
- Pain when chewing or yawning
- Tender jaw joints and muscles
- Popping or clicking noises in the jaw
- Jaw joints that lock or feel stuck
- Headaches
- Pain and fullness around the ear
What Causes TMD?
Several conditions can be linked to TMD, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the disorder. Some of the more common causes of TMD include:
- Head or jaw injuries
- Tooth grinding
- Stress
- Diseases that affect the joints or muscles, such as autoimmune disorders and arthritis
To determine how best to treat your pain, a dental professional should perform a complete evaluation of your jaw and mouth. At Belle Rive Dental, our trained dentist will examine your joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving. They may take x-rays and refer you to an oral maxillofacial specialist for further diagnostics and treatment.
Treatment Options
Like many joint problems, TMD is often managed but not cured. If you have a mild case of TMD, then our dentist may recommend conservative treatment to start with. Conservative treatment involves:
- Eating softer foods
- Minimizing extreme jaw movements, such as yelling, singing, or yawning
- Avoiding gum chewing
- Using heat or ice to alleviate pain
- Practicing stretching and relaxation techniques
If needed, our dentist will also provide you with a nightguard to wear during your sleep. This nightguard will stop you from unconsciously clenching and grinding your teeth in your sleep, protecting your teeth from wear and alleviating tension in your jaw.
If you are still struggling with TMD pain after conservative treatment methods, you may need to visit an oral maxillofacial surgeon for further evaluation and possible surgical intervention.
