We believe it is important to take care of the structures that support your mouth as well as your teeth and gums. A common supporting structure that often experiences pain or discomfort is the jaw, more specifically the joint that fastens your jaw to your skull.
If you’ve experienced consistent or persistent pain in your jaw joint, you may be suffering from TMD.
What Is TMD?
TMD stands for temporomandibular joint dysfunction. It is most often described as pain in the jaw joint as well as compromised movement in that area. TMD is often used interchangeably with TMJ, which stands for temporomandibular joint. TMD refers to the disorder, and TMJ refers to the specific joint affected when you have the disorder.
This disorder has a number of symptoms that can make everyday life difficult and painful. Some of these symptoms are very surprising.
Symptoms and Treatment for TMD/TMJ
Common symptoms for TMD/TMJ include some of the following:
- Clicking or locking of the jaw.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Jaw or facial pain.
- Shoulder and neck pain.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Toothaches.
- Muscles spasms.
- Headaches or migraines.
- Tenderness in the joint.
Millions of Americans suffer from TMD. If you think you might be among them, contact us to get relief from your symptoms. Treatment options have been created to combat and minimize the pain with the eventual goal to remove the pain entirely.
TMD/TMJ Treatments
Treatment for TMD/TMJ is wide-ranging. It can involve self-care, equipment, therapy, and medications. While working with your healthcare professionals, we can offer bite splints or night guards to protect your teeth and ease the strain on your jaw.
These items can keep you from grinding or clenching your teeth. They can also keep your jaw in a more relaxed position, allowing your TMJ to begin healing.
This is simply one of the treatments available for those suffering from TMD. We are happy to offer this option for patients who may benefit from it.
Ready to Help
We would be happy to help relieve the symptoms of TMJ. Give our office a call with any questions or to set up an appointment.