The most common symptom is typically chronic jaw pain but here is a list of other symptoms to keep an eye out for:
If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, a visit to Hope Dental will put you on the road to recovery!
Treating TMJ issues begins with taking diagnostics. X-rays help us to see what is going on inside. Impressions help to show us how your jaws and teeth fit together. After evaluating the results, Dr. Ras will be able to decide on the next course of action.
Because there is a wide range of factors that can lead to TMD, diagnosis and treatment can be very challenging. Dr. Ras has been very successful in helping his patients find relief. A complete health history, thorough exam and x-rays will help him determine the cause of your pain.
Treatment options can range from home care to splint therapy to orthodontics depending on the severity of your symptoms. Home care includes anti-inflammatories, ice packs, heat, and a diet of soft foods. Splint therapy is used to establish a healthy relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Orthodontic or restorative dental work may be needed to stabilize treatment.
What exactly is TMJ/TMD?
When your Temporomandibular Joints (the two joints which connect your jaw to your skull) become misaligned and cause pain and inflammation, this is known as Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). If you notice this happening, it is important to act quickly and seek help to begin the therapy process.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
There can be several symptoms of TMD which can make diagnosis a bit more difficult. The most common is, of course, soreness in and around the jaw. The following symptoms are also indicative of TMD:
-Neck pain
-Headaches
-Pain and tenderness around the ear
-Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
-Clicking and popping
-Crunching and grinding your teeth when chewing or opening your mouth
Call our office today if you experience any of these symptoms. Dr. Ras has had great success getting people out of pain due to TMD.
What causes TMD?
There are many factors that may contribute to TMD including:
Jaw injuries
Joint disease such as arthritis
Genetics
Tooth clenching or grinding
Ill-fitting dentures or partials
Stress may also be a factor. However, it is not clear if stress causes TMD, or is a result of it.
It is important to let your dentist know if you are experiencing discomfort in your jaw so that we can effectively create a treatment plan best suited to you.
Is TMD causing my headaches?
It is a possibility. TMD is often linked with neck pain and headaches. If you are experiencing neck pain or headaches, it is important to let us know so that we can provide a full assessment of the situation.
Does TMD require surgery?
Dr. Ras uses non-surgical techniques to help patients.
R McBride
Dr. Ras has provided extensive dental care to me for over 25 years. I have been very satisfied with his professional expertise and his ability to deal with complex problems. From my first visit to his office, I learned that he truly listens, and cares about his patients.