Jaw Pain Should Not Be Ignored
If jaw discomfort has become a regular part of your day, you may have started to accept it as normal. However, ongoing jaw pain can be a sign of TMD affecting one or both temporomandibular joints. These joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and help you chew, speak and move your mouth. When the joints or surrounding muscles become irritated or affected by an imbalance, inflammation can develop and lead to pain and other symptoms.
What Are The Signs Of TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
- Frequent headaches
- Ear pain or tenderness around the ears
- Soreness or discomfort in the face or jaw
- Muscle tension or pain in the neck, shoulders and upper back
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears
- Clicking, popping or grinding sounds when moving your jaw
- Trouble chewing, yawning or opening your mouth
How Is TMD Diagnosed And Treated?
Diagnosis
The first step in treating TMD is a thorough examination of your jaw, face, bite, teeth and joints. During your visit, we will look for areas of discomfort or tenderness and listen for clicking, popping or other unusual sounds as you open and close your mouth, swallow or chew. If TMD is identified, a custom bite splint or night guard may be recommended as a first step.
Treatment And Relief
One common treatment for TMD is a custom-made bite splint. This comfortable plastic appliance fits over your upper and/or lower teeth and can help reduce the effects of clenching and grinding that may contribute to jaw discomfort. It can also help support a more balanced jaw position and reduce pressure on the surrounding muscles and joints.
Alternative Treatment Options
If your symptoms are related to an uneven bite or missing teeth, orthodontic treatment or restorative dental care may be recommended. When certain teeth are placing extra pressure on the TMJ, carefully adjusting their shape may also help distribute biting forces more evenly and reduce strain on the jaw joints.
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.
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