What is TMD?
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (the TMJ). The symptoms, often painful, come about when there is a discrepancy between teeth, the jaw joint and the muscles that open and close the jaw.
What causes TMD?
TMD/TMJ symptoms can be caused by a number of different things. Trauma (car accidents, fight, etc.) is one. A skeletal discrepancy is another. Misalignment of the teeth in relationship to the muscles and skull is a third.
TMD Symptoms
Occasional discomfort in your jaw or muscles is quite normal and normally not a cause for alarm.
Call our office if you:
1.) experience radiating pain in your shoulders, neck or face
2.) you have a clicking sound in your jaw joint when you open or close, or
3.) your jaws suddenly don't line up correctly or you have difficulty opening and closing.
TMD Treatments
Treatment of TMD symptoms is generally very conservative and completely reversible. We use a combination of many different things to get your joint comfortable and aligned correctly. These may include heat or ice packs, muscle-relaxants and/or anti-inflammatory medication, BITE SPLINTS (Orthotics), and even relaxation techniques.