A temporomandibular disorder (TMD) causes pain or tenderness in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of the jaw. The TMJ, a complex joint, enables us to chew, swallow, yawn and speak. Moreover, this joint works in conjunction with the surrounding muscles and ligaments and has a wide range of movement. TMDs can cause severe pain for some, and consequently, affect 33% of people to varying degrees over their lifetime.
Causes of TMD’s
Injury or Arthritis often cause TMDs, or even a combination of the two. Additionally, many believe that clenching or grinding your teeth can exacerbate pain in the joint.
Furthermore, there is a correlation between stress and TMD. However, it remains unclear whether stress causes pain in the joint or if stress results from having joint pain.
In severe cases, pain in the TMJ can have life-altering effects. Therefore, a medical professional needs to diagnose the specific type of TMD you’re suffering from, as there is a wide spectrum of disorders.
TMD Treatments and Options
Unfortunately for those suffering from TMD, treatment options are limited. Nevertheless, some patients can find relief in massage therapy, acupuncture, or physical therapy. As dental professionals, we recommend a comprehensive exam to determine if creating a custom night guard can ease the discomfort of clenching and grinding.
Many people are aware that they clench or grind, and your dentist will look at your teeth for any signs (wearing of the tooth structure). In addition, a history of headaches or migraines and muscle discomfort can be telling signs as well. Consequently, a night guard is often a good place to start to find relief
TMD Discomfort
TMD discomfort can worsen with long periods of mouth opening. Therefore, please let us know if you have these symptoms. We do our best to accommodate your needs during your appointments. Finally, we would love to discuss your options for treatment and may refer you to a specialist for further treatment. Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions.
References
Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941
Canadian Dental Association – https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/talk/complications/temporomandibular_disorder/
American Family Physician-Diagnosis and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders – https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0315/p378.html
Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy-Management and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Clinical Perspective – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2813497/
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