TMJ-TMD
Millions in America face chronic facial and neck pain, along with recurring headaches, which sometimes stem from Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). This disorder involves the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) that connect your lower jaw to the skull, crucial in daily activities like talking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning. Discomfort or movement restrictions in these joints can cause notable pain.
Symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Ear issues like pain, ringing, or stuffiness
- Regular headaches or neck aches
- Clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement
- Muscle spasms around the jaw
- Altered alignment of the upper and lower teeth
- Difficulty in opening the mouth or a locked jaw sensation.
It’s important to note that not all jaw pain is linked to TMD. If you suspect you might have TMD, a dental examination is crucial. However, if TMD is not the cause of your jaw pain, there are various preventative steps to maintain a healthy, strong smile:
- Keep your face relaxed with lips together but teeth apart to avoid strain.
- Avoid teeth grinding, which can exacerbate jaw pain.
- Steer clear of gum chewing to prevent overworking the jaw muscles.
- Use a headset for phone calls instead of cradling the receiver between your head and shoulder.
- Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth.
- Avoid resting your chin on your hand.
- Practice good posture with your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared.
TMD can occur with or without a history of braces, and its symptoms can fluctuate over time. If you’re concerned about TMD and its impact on your life, please reach out to our office for a consultation. We can help determine if you’re a candidate for TMD treatment and guide you toward the appropriate solutions.
