IF YOU’VE BEEN EXPERIENCING regular headaches, neck and shoulder pain, or persistent ringing in your ears, we may be able to help. These are common symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
TMJ Problems Can Lead To TMD
Complex joints called temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull. Properly aligned, these joints make it possible for us to chew, swallow, and talk. If these joints are out of alignment or not synchronized with your jaw, it can lead to serious, often painful, issues.
Problems with your TMJ, jaw, and surrounding facial muscles can lead to temporomandibular disorders (TMD). These problems can be caused by undue strain on your TMJ and jaw (often a result of teeth grinding, trauma, or stress).
Some TMD Symptoms Include:
- Headaches
- Jaw, face, neck, shoulder, and back pain/soreness
- Earaches or ringing in ears
- Limited jaw movement, locking of the jaw
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds with jaw movement
- Teeth grinding
- Difficulty chewing or an uncomfortable bite
- Sensitive teeth
- Dizziness
Ear Problems? Your TMJ May Be To Blame
How We Diagnose And Treat TMD In Our Practice
In our office, the first appointment will begin with taking a thorough history of your concern as well as a comprehensive examination of your joint, muscles and various other surrounding structures. This information will give a baseline to compare to what is typically considered to be normal. After a diagnosis has been determined, different modalities for treatment will be discussed.
Various Treatment Options
Various effective treatments can range from simple to more involved, including:
- Ice and hot packs
- Relaxation techniques/stress management
- Diet changes
- Posture training
- Physical therapy
- An appliance or mouthguard worn to stop teeth clenching
- Medication
- Surgery
Typically, TMJ problems are temporary and not serious. Even so, the best way to avoid complications is to visit with us at the first signs of concern. The sooner you start appropriate treatment, the sooner you’ll find relief. Call us today!
Thank you for trusting us with your oral health!
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