The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the entire body. Because of this, there is a lot that can go wrong. When the TMJ isn’t functioning as it should, this is called TMJ disorder, or TMD. This can result in various uncomfortable symptoms, like headaches, earaches, lockjaw, jaw pain, and tinnitus. You may be wondering why seeing a dentist is recommended for TMD? Continue reading to find out!
Why Should You See a Dentist for TMD?
Initially, you may think of a dentist as just a doctor for teeth. While they can do wonders for the health of your smile, their knowledge isn’t limited to just the teeth. The different components of your mouth work as a system. This includes your temporomandibular joints. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to open and close your mouth to chew and speak. Because dentists are familiar with the oral cavity and surrounding structures, they can help to diagnose your TMD. They also offer various treatment options to help you achieve relief.
What Are the Symptoms of TMD?
There are various signs that you may have TMD. Here are some of the common symptoms that sufferers experience.
- Pain: TMD can cause your facial muscles to be sore, making it difficult to chew. You could even experience popping, clicking, or locking of the jaw.
- Headaches: TMD may cause muscle tension that leads to headaches. For some, TMD can trigger migraine attacks.
- Tinnitus: TMD can cause some to experience ringing of the ears.
- Musculoskeletal Aches: Some patients experience pain the neck, shoulders, and back.
Which TMD Treatment Options Are Available?
There are multiple treatment options available to help relieve you of your TMD-related symptoms. Here are two of the most common ones that many dentists offer.
Occlusal Splints
An occlusal splint is a custom=crafted orthotic device that can prevent the grinding of the teeth and help your facial muscles to relax. It works by holding your jaw in the proper position to prevent unnecessary pressure on the jaw joints and the teeth. With consistent use, it can provide significant symptom relief, helping to prevent damage to the teeth and temporomandibular joints.
Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment
In some cases, the cause of TMD is the way that the upper and lower arches of teeth fit together. To correct imperfections, your dentist may slightly modify the chewing surfaces of some of your teeth and restorations. This adjustment can help all of your teeth to better fit together, reducing uneven pressure and reducing stress on your jaw joints.
Don’t let TMD take away from your quality of life! Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your symptoms so you can get the treatment you need.
About the Practice
At Smile Fitness Dental Centers, Dr. Bernard M. Florento, Dr. Joseph A. Santoro, and Dr. Dositej Stulic work together to treat patients in the Phoenix area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about TMJ treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (623) 303-0967.