What is TMD?
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is a problem with the movement of one or both of the hinging joints that attach your jawbones to your skull.
TMD affects the muscles, nerves, ligaments, and bones surrounding your jaw and can cause a multitude of painful symptoms as a result. Though TMD is a widespread problem affecting between 10 million and 30 million Americans, treatments aren’t always enough. Since TMD can present itself with so many different symptoms, it is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. It is important to consult your dental or orthodontic specialist to diagnose and treat your TMD pain correctly.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
TMD can cause chronic or severe pain. It may be short-lived or long-lasting. One or both sides of the face or the neck and shoulder can be affected. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or achiness in the face, jaw, ear, or neck
- Discomfort when opening mouth wide
- Lockjaw
- The sound of popping, clicking or grinding when you chew
- Swelling in your face or jaw
- Headaches or migraines
- Difficulty or pain when you chew
What causes TMD?
While it is not known for sure what causes TMD, dental specialists believe it comes from conditions that injure or put stress on the muscles or jaw. Causes may include:
- Bruxism: clenching or grinding of your teeth
- Malocclusion: misalignment of your bite
- Arthritis in the joint
- Tension: tightened facial or jaw muscles
- Sleep apnea
What are my treatment options for TMD?
Minor TMD conditions often go away without interventive treatment and by reducing the strain on the joint. Resist chewing gum, eat softer foods, and give your jaw a rest from talking.
If your TMD continues to bother you, your dental specialist may suggest remedies such as anti-inflammatory medications, dental guards, relaxation therapy or moist heat or cold packs. Other treatment options include:
- Botox injections
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Trigger point injections (pain medication in the joint)
- Radio wave therapy: stimulation to the joint to increase blood flow
- Low-level laser therapy to lower inflammation
- Dental treatments such as braces
- Ultrasound: deep heat applied to joint
To learn more about treatment options for TMD, call TMJ and Orthodontic specialist Dr. Yousefian of Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults to schedule a consultation or book online today.
