TMJ / TMD Issues with the temporomandibular joint can bring a lot of pain-related symptoms. If you suffer from unexplained migraines or headaches, jaw pain, sleep disorders, or ear pain, they could be linked to issues with your mouth, particularly the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Our TMJ specialists at Jerome Riddle DDS offer treatment to help relieve the different symptoms of the disorder. Depending on the cause of the temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), we develop a treatment plan that works best to alleviate pain and prevent damage to teeth while also ensuring the proper function of the bite. How TMD OccursThe way the teeth come together, often referred to as the bite or occlusion, determines how the mouth functions. When there are problems with the bite, often known as malocclusions, you can suffer from pain. Teeth should simultaneously and evenly touch when chewing. If there is an irregular bite, it causes unnecessary stress on the muscles and joints of the jaw. As such, you may have pain and soreness within the jaw joint. TMD SymptomsThe symptoms of TMD vary greatly, making the diagnosis difficult. When you notice that your teeth are worn down or they do not meet uniformly when biting down, there could be problems with the bite. Problems of malocclusion can arise even with a mouth full of properly aligned teeth. As such, it could contribute to problems that seem unrelated such as back pain, migraines, ear pain, and sleep disorders. Treating the malocclusion in time before the symptoms advance fully can help preserve the function and integrity of the teeth and prevent severe pain from arising. Common symptoms of TMD include pain and tenderness in the face and around the ears or inside the ears, especially when speaking and chewing. The pain can also be felt in the neck and shoulders. You may also have jaws that get locked or stuck in closed or open-mouth positions. It is also common for people with TMD to experience popping, clicking, or grating sounds within the jaw joint once they try opening or closing their mouth or chewing. Swelling on the sides of the face, migraine headaches, a sudden uncomfortable bite - for instance, the lower and upper teeth not fitting together as they should, and a tired feeling in the face are other symptoms that signal TMD. Treatment of TMDTMJ disorder treatment helps restore jaw alignment and minimize symptoms such as unrelenting pain and sounds when chewing and biting. Some cases of TMD are fully addressed after a patient receives dental restorations or completes an orthodontic treatment. However, others may need continued use of nightguards to help prevent misalignment and damage to the enamel. To deal with the pain and swelling, we may administer painkillers and anti-inflammatories. If you grind your teeth during sleep, a mouthguard provides protection. Since the TMD causes may affect the bite, you may need corrective dental treatment. Our dentist improves your bite by replacing missing teeth, damaged fillings or crowns, and balancing the surfaces of teeth. Surgery may be an option if other conservative treatment options are not effective. Talk to us to find out about TMD/TMJ treatment and how you can relieve the symptoms. Visit us at Jerome Riddle DDS or call 480-991-4410 to set up an initial consultation. |
