If you find that your jaw hurts on a regular basis, there’s a good chance you have a temporomandibular disorder, also known by the acronym TMD. So what is a temporomandibular disorder? And what can you do to treat it? Read on to learn more about TMD!
Temporomandibular Disorders
Temporomandibular disorders are the result of a problem with the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects your lower jaw, known as the mandible, to the temporal bone in your skull, which you can find in front of both ears. This joint is flexible to allow your jaw to move so you can talk, eat, etc. There are muscles that connect to the jaw that control this movement.
Causes of TMD
There are a number of possible causes of TMD:
- A sharp blow to the head.
- Whiplash.
- Grinding or clenching teeth.
- Dislocation of the joint.
- Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Stress, leading to a tightening of facial muscles.
Symptoms of TMD
People who suffer from TMD usually report some of the following symptoms.
- Pain in the face, jaw, neck or shoulders, becoming more pronounced when moving the jaw.
- Unable to open the mouth wide.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Clicking sounds when opening and closing the mouth.
- Swelling.
- The jaw getting stuck in one position.
- Headache.
- Toothache.
- Hearing problems, including earaches and tinnitis.
Treatment for TMD
There are plenty of options when it comes to treatment for TMD. The nature of the treatment will depend on your case and its severity.
- Ice pack routine – Apply an ice pack to the face, accompanied with some stretching exercises and followed by a warm washcloth. This routine is done several times a day.
- Change in diet – Your dentist may recommend changes in diet to reduce the work your jaw has to do. Softer foods make it easier for you to chew, as does cutting food into smaller pieces.
- Medication – Various medications are used in the treatment of TMD. Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription pain relievers are used to reduce pain. Muscle relaxants can help relax tight facial and jaw muscles. Anti-anxiety medication may be used if the cause is believed to be associated with stress.
- Laser therapy – Laser therapy can reduce pain and inflammation and increase the range of motion of the jaw.
- Night guards – A night guard is a plastic mouthpiece worn at night that works to correct the bite and prevent teeth grinding. A splint, which is worn day and night, may also be used.
- Corrective treatment – Your dentist in Olney may perform corrective treatments to better align your bite.
If you would like more information on Temporomandibular disorders, or think its time for a visit to the dentist, call Olney Dental! You can reach us at (301) 250-1057 or, you can schedule an appointment online. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube.