TMJ/TMD Treatments
Portland, OR
TMJ & TMD - What You Need to Know?
TMJ, the temporomandibular joint, is the joint that connects the jaw bones to the skull. Located on each side of the jaw, the joint plays a very important role in the proper functioning of the jaws, as well as the surrounding facial tissues. Therefore, when it is not functioning properly, some problems are bound to arise, as well as serious side effects, starting with severe pain. The improper functioning of the TMJ is referred to as TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), and it is a common and serious dental problem. Luckily, there are treatment options for the condition, which is where Portland City Dental comes in. We offer a wide range of dental solutions to patients suffering from TMD to help them ease the symptoms and control the condition.
What Causes TMD?
There is no specific known cause as to why the TMJ dysfunctions. However, several conditions are linked to its improper functioning. Below is a look at some of these causative factors:
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Traumatic injuries to the jaw bones or the head - these can damage the jaws, causing the TMJ to dysfunction, or even damage the joint itself.
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Teeth grinding and clenching - teeth grinding and clenching can apply undue pressure to the jaw bone over time, which could be transferred to the joint, causing it to dysfunction.
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Stress - stress could lead to the spasm of the facial muscles (surrounding the TMJ), which can trigger problems within the joint.
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Muscle or joints diseases - the TMJ or the facial muscles surrounding it can be vulnerable to diseases such as arthritis, and others that target muscles and joints, thus causing it to dysfunction. |
Signs That You Need to See a Dentist
TMD is characterized by several signs and symptoms, and it is not always easy to know if they are related to TMD or other problems. However, some signs can help to tell you that everything is not okay, a sign that you need to visit a dentist for further diagnosis. Below is a look at these signs:
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Severe pain in the jaw, which worsens when pressure is applied - for example, when biting or chewing.
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Pain in the surrounding muscles - the face and the ear area.
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Severe headaches, earaches, and pain behind the eyes.
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Popping or clicking sound when you open or close the mouth.
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Tenderness of the facial muscles surrounding the jaw and TMJ.
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A change in the bite. |
Diagnosis of TMD
While the above signs and symptoms can be an indication of TMD, a dental examination is required to properly diagnose the condition. The examination includes physical examination of the oral and facial tissues and muscles for signs of inflammation, the working of the TMJ when opening and closing your mouth, and dental imaging (x-rays and CT scans) to detect and identify damage to the joint. After the diagnosis, a proper treatment plan will be offered to help control the condition.
Treatment Options for TMD
When TMD is diagnosed, some (or combination) of treatments can be offered to help control the condition. These include:
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Using dental appliances such as night mouth guard or occlusal splints to stop teeth grinding and clenching.
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Eliminating muscle spasms through the use of anti-inflammatory medication.
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Lifestyle changes to relieve the symptoms or reduce the effect of the causative factors - for example, eating softer foods, stopping the chewing of gum, avoiding excessive use of the joint by avoiding singing and yelling, etc.
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Relaxation techniques to help relax the surrounding facial muscles.
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Jaw joint surgery to correct jaw defects causing TMD.
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Orthodontic treatments to fix misaligned teeth and a bad bite. |
Are you in need of help for jaw pain and other TMD symptoms? Portland City Dental can offer you the solutions you need. Call us today at (503) 256-7917 to schedule an appointment. |
