TMD/TMJ Treatment

TMD or Temporomandibular Disorder

Millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as recurrent headaches. In some cases this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, also called TMD.

Your temporomandibular joints (sometimes known as TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull. As you may imagine, your TMJ gets a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.

TMJD can cause jaw pain and a variety of other painful symptoms.What Are the Symptoms of TMD?

  • Pain in the jaw area.
  • Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears.
  • Frequent headaches or neckaches.
  • Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves.
  • Swelling on the sides of the face.
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw area.
  • A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth.
  • Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth.

Should you notice any of these symptoms of TMJ disorder, let The Carrollton Dentist know! Our family dentistry team can help advise you as to whether they indicate the presence of TMD and what sort of treatment is appropriate for you.

Basic Test for TMJD

If you’re unsure if you have TMJ disorder, the following simple test can help you assess whether or not you do:

  1. Put your finger over top of the jaw joint in front of your ear.
  2. Open your mouth slightly.
  3. Open your mouth wider until you feel the joint move.

If experience any clicking, popping, or discomfort during this test, you may have TMJ disorder. Of course we can help confirm this diagnosis for you.

Avoiding Headaches and Other TMD Symptoms

If you don’t have any of these TMD symptoms, let’s keep it that way! There are some simple things you can do at home or work to prevent TMD from occurring in your jaw joints:

Woman is relieved after having her TMD problems fixed by a Carrollton dentist.

  • Relax your face – remember the rule: “Lips together, teeth apart.”
  • Avoid grinding your teeth.
  • Avoid constant gum chewing.
  • Don’t cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder – either use a headset or hold the receiver to your ear.
  • Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth.
  • Do not sit with your chin rested on your hand.
  • Practice good posture – keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared.

The Carrollton Dentist Is Here to Help!

If you are suffering from constant unexplained headaches, the problem may be with your TMJ muscles. Call, text, or email our cosmetic dentist at The Carrollton Dentist for a TMD consultation.

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