Jaw Pain Is Not Normal
Jaw pain that you experience regularly may have become something you’ve accepted, but it’s important to know that it’s far from typical. Persistent jaw pain could signal a condition known as TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), which affects one or both of the TemporoMandibular Joints (TMJ). When misalignment or inflammation occurs in these joints, it leads to discomfort and other related issues.
- Frequent headaches
- Earaches or sensitivity around the ears
- Pain or tenderness in the face or jaw
- Tension or discomfort in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw
- Difficulty with chewing, yawning, or fully opening the mouth
What Are the Signs of TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
How Do We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
The first step in treating TMD involves a detailed clinical assessment, which includes checking your jaw, face, bite, joints, and teeth. We will look for signs of discomfort and tenderness, and listen for clicking or popping sounds when you move your mouth, chew, or swallow. If TMD is diagnosed, we often begin treatment with a bite splint or night guard.
Treatment and Relief
To manage TMD, we typically use bite splints, custom-made devices that cover your upper or lower teeth. These mouthpieces are designed to reduce grinding and clenching, which can worsen TMD. They also help realign the jaw, relieving pressure on the surrounding muscles and joints.
Alternative Treatment Options
If your TMD is caused by misalignment or missing teeth, we might suggest orthodontic treatments or restorative dental procedures. In some cases, reshaping teeth can help redistribute the bite pressure and reduce strain on the TMJ.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ stands for the Temporomandibular Joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it results in Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly referred to as TMD.
Symptoms of TMD can include pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, temples, or around the ear. You may also experience difficulty opening or closing your mouth, along with clicking, popping, or grinding sounds while chewing, yawning, or moving your mouth. TMD is sometimes associated with headaches and neck pain.
TMD can result from various factors, such as jaw injuries, joint diseases like arthritis, or bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching). Tension in the head or neck muscles may worsen the symptoms. While stress may contribute to TMD, it’s unclear whether stress directly causes it or is a result of it. Other contributing factors include poorly fitting dentures or certain habits, such as nail-biting or pencil chewing. Given the range of causes, it’s essential to consult with a professional to accurately diagnose the condition.
Headaches can be caused by various factors, and identifying the exact cause requires a physical examination by a healthcare provider.
In most cases, TMJ pain can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments. Surgery is rarely needed for TMD. We will always explore the least invasive and safest treatment options first, keeping your well-being and preferences in mind, and ensuring you are fully informed to make the best decision for your health.
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