If you're experiencing discomfort in your jaw, you might be dealing with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). We know how debilitating TMD can be, and we offer several treatments to aid in the correction and relief of these issues.
What Is TMD?
Your two temporomandibular joints (TMJ) act as sliding hinges that connect your skull to your jawbone. They are essential for everyday activities like talking, chewing, and yawning and are responsible for the opening and closing of your mouth.
When the temporomandibular joints are affected, patients suffer from a condition known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). TMD can result from various factors, including jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth grinding, or stress.
TMD can be either skeletal or muscular in nature and figuring this out is the key factor in determining the proper treatment going forward.
Common TMD symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Pain in one or both TMJs
- Aching around the ear
- Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
- Locking of the jaw joint
- Popping or clicking sounds when you move your jaw
What Are the Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders?
Your treatment will depend on how severe the symptoms are and the root cause behind them. Some common options we provide include:
- Home Care: Simple measures like applying ice or heat, eating soft foods, and avoiding extreme jaw movements can make a big difference. We may recommend over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications or prescribe muscle relaxers.
- Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises and techniques to strengthen and stretch your jaw muscles.
- Mouthguards: Custom-fitted oral appliances can prevent teeth grinding, which helps reduce the strain on your jaw by keeping it in a more relaxed and natural position during sleep.
- Surgery: For severe cases, surgical options such as arthroscopy or open-joint surgery may be necessary.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Straightening teeth can help with TMJ disorder because a proper bite reduces stress on the jaw joint and muscles.
FAQs About TMD
Mild cases of TMD may improve with simple self-care practices and lifestyle changes. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, you will need professional treatment to prevent other complications and improve your quality of life.
Ignoring TMD symptoms can also lead to chronic pain and other health issues, such as earaches, headaches, difficulty eating, and sleep disturbances.
The American Dental Association states that TMD affects more than 15% of adults nationwide.
Not necessarily. Often times, your jaw can be perfectly fine and still click or pop upon opening and closing due to other factors. That’s why it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. During your free consultation, Dr. Dyer will carefully evaluate your symptoms to recommend the best solution for you.
Contact Dyer Orthodontics today to schedule your free consultation and get the answers you need!
Get the Right Treatment for TMD at Dyer Orthodontics
If you're experiencing any symptoms of TMD, don't wait to seek help! Contact our team at Dyer Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation, get a diagnosis, and make sure you receive the best care.
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