Parkwood Dental Associates

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TMD

TMD Treatment

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, commonly known as “TMD,” encompasses a range of conditions that involve pain and dysfunction in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and its surrounding muscles. Identifying the exact cause of these symptoms can be challenging, but the positive aspect is that most TMD cases can be resolved with the conservative home remedies we recommend. It’s essential to explore all reversible options before considering irreversible treatments like bridgework or surgery.

The two TMJs connect the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull’s temporal bone on either side, forming complex joints that enable movement in three dimensions. These joints work as a ball and socket, with a cushioning disk between them. The large muscle groups in the cheeks and temples control the lower jaw’s movement. Any of these components—the disk, the muscles, or the joint itself—can contribute to TMD issues. If you’re experiencing pain or have difficulty opening or closing your jaw, we will conduct a comprehensive examination to identify the problem area and recommend suitable remedies.

Causes of TMD

Like any joint, the TMJ can experience orthopedic issues, including inflammation, muscle soreness, strained tendons and ligaments, and disk problems. Research indicates that TMD can be influenced by various factors, such as genetics, gender (with women being more susceptible), trauma, and age. Additionally, physical and psychological stress can contribute to TMD symptoms. In some instances, jaw pain may be associated with broader medical conditions that induce pain, such as fibromyalgia, which affects connective tissues and muscles.

Signs and Symptoms of TMD

  • Clicking Sounds: Some individuals with TMD may notice a clicking, popping, or grating sound from the TMJ when they open or close their mouth, usually due to the disk shifting within the joint. Interestingly, about one-third of people have jaw joints that click without any significant symptoms. However, if clicking occurs alongside pain or limited jaw function—like the jaw getting “stuck”—this may indicate TMD.

  • Muscle Pain: Muscle soreness can manifest in the cheeks (masseter muscles) and temples (temporalis muscles), where the primary jaw-closing muscles are located. If you wake up with stiffness and soreness, it may be linked to clenching or grinding your teeth at night. In such cases, a custom-made nightguard can help reduce the force on your teeth, allowing your muscles to relax and relieving pressure on the jaw joints.

  • Joint Pain: Pain originating from one or both jaw joints may be described as arthritis of the TMJ. Some individuals may show arthritic changes on radiographs without experiencing pain, while others may have significant symptoms despite normal joint appearances on X-rays. There is no cure for arthritis in any joint, but medications may provide relief from symptoms.

Relieving the Pain

 

Once we conduct a thorough examination, we will develop a tailored treatment plan to manage your condition and alleviate pain. Some effective strategies may include:

  • Dietary Adjustments: Temporarily switching to a softer diet can help reduce stress on your jaw muscles and joints.
  • Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying ice or moist heat can relieve soreness and inflammation in the affected areas.
  • Gentle Stretching: Engaging in gentle stretching exercises can help alleviate muscle spasms and improve mobility.
  • Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants may provide relief from pain and discomfort.

Together, these approaches aim to restore function and comfort to your jaw while addressing any underlying issues.

Other Treatment Options

In cases of severe TMD, more advanced treatments may be necessary. These options can include:

  • Orthodontics: To realign teeth and improve bite function.
  • Dental Restorations: Such as bridgework to restore missing teeth and improve occlusion.
  • Minor Procedures: These can include cortisone injections to reduce inflammation or joint lavage (flushing) to cleanse the joint.

Major surgery for TMD is quite rare. It’s crucial to exhaust a variety of conservative and reversible treatments before considering more invasive options, as these initial approaches often prove effective.

If you’re experiencing pain, the first step is to schedule an examination at our dental office. We’re here to help you find relief and discuss your treatment options. For more information, feel free to contact us.