Conservative TMJ Treatment
TMJD or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder refers to a group of disorders that affect the joint which joins the jaw to the skull (temporomandibular joint or TMJ) as well as the muscles that control chewing. This disorder often results in discomforts such as pain, difficulty with the jaw, earaches and migraines. There are many causes of TMJD including but not limited to:
- Trauma to the jaw or TMJ
- Arthritis
- Grinding of the teeth
- Jaw clenching
- Misaligned bite
- Poor posture
- Stress
- Dislocation
- Disease or illness
You may be surprised to learn some of the seemingly unrelated symptoms of TMJD. Symptoms of TMJD may also include:
- Prevalent pain or soreness in the jaw, especially at certain times of the day
- A popping or clicking sound when the mouth is opened or closed
- Trouble opening and closing the mouth or chewing
- Misaligned bite
- An earache not caused by infection
- A toothache not caused by infection or other dental health issues
- Jaw pain when chewing, biting, yawning or speaking
- A ‘locked’ or stiff jaw when chewing, biting, yawing or speaking
- Recurring tension headaches or migraines, especially if present upon waking
- Recent changes to your bite
There are many ways to treat TMJD just as there are many causes and symptoms. At Seidner Dentistry & Associates we offer you many options for TMJD treatment. If you are interested in learning more about TMJD and what we can do for you, please give us a call.