The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, so it’s essential for speaking, eating and drinking. If you have any pain or discomfort in or around your jaw joint area, it’s known as TMJ syndrome or temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD can cause a wide range of symptoms from mild to severe, and would require the expertise of your dentist in Concord, NC.
There are many different causes of TMD, but it is often associated with stress or teeth grinding. In some cases, dentistry in Concord, NC may be needed to help address and relieve TMD symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from TMD.
Common TMD Symptoms
Among the more common TMD symptoms are pain or tenderness in your jaw joint or muscles that control jaw movement, a clicking or popping sound when you move your jaw, difficulty chewing or pain when chewing, the sensation that your jaw is “locking in place”, and pain in your face, neck or shoulders. Many, if not all, of these symptoms warrant emergency dentistry services.
Other seemingly unrelated indications that you might have TMJ syndrome include dizziness, ear aches, and pain in the shoulder, neck, or back. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your trusted family dentistry practitioner can provide a number of different treatments for TMD, depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
Treatment Options
There are a number of TMD / TMJ treatments that you can consider. One of them is an acrylic splint, which holds your teeth in place and ease the jaw into a position that will not cause a strain. These splints may take some getting used to, as they are designed to provide you with an optimal jaw placement. Your other options include wisdom teeth removal and dental bridges.
Another great option is an implant. Dental implants are designed to mimic your natural teeth, giving you a comfortable fit that is easy to care for. If you’ve got a misaligned jaw due to missing teeth, implants can help address a number of symptoms associated with TMD.
Contact Clifford C. Compton III DDS, PA at the first sign of jaw or tooth discomfort. We look forward to helping you deal with TMD.
