Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, commonly referred to as TMJ or TMD, results in discomfort during everyday tasks such as eating and speech. At Total Family Dental Specialists, we offer a variety of treatments to alleviate the symptoms of TMD, allowing patients to regain dental comfort.
What is TMD?
Given the wide variety of factors that causes jaw dysfunction, TMD diagnosis can be difficult to pinpoint. At Total Family Dental Specialists, we encourage patients to work with their primary care physicians to ensure that any discomfort they are experiencing is not caused by conditions that mimic TMD. These conditions include sinus infections and nerve pain.
While there is no one particular cause for TMD, there are a variety of factors that contribute to jaw. Bruxism, or the grinding and clenching of teeth, places a great deal of pressure on the joint of the jaw. Teeth and jaw alignment can also contribute to the development of TMD, as improper bite alignment leads to increased pressure on one site of the bite over another. Injuries and arthritis in the jaw or neck are other common factors for patients who develop TMD.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of TMJ disorders is dull, aching pain in the jaw and the nearby areas that comes and goes. However, if the condition affecting the joint goes undiagnosed, symptoms can increase to include:
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
- Headaches
- Ear pain and ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grating of the jaw
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
Alleviating TMD
The type of treatment necessary to alleviate the symptoms of TMD varies greatly based on cause.
If it is determined that missing teeth have created an imbalanced bite, and is causing pressure on one side of the jaw, dental implants can be used to fill the gap in the smile. Patients who grind their teeth can benefit from mouthguards for use during the day or at night, relieving the excess of pressure that comes from clenching and grinding.
If you experience regular discomfort in your jaw and are looking for comprehensive treatment to correct TMD, contact Total Family Dental Specialists today.