Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Symptoms and Treatment

Jaw pain can be a sign that you are suffering from a temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is comprised of a disc sandwiched between a ball and socket. This disc or soft cushion absorbs the forces on the joint, which enables you to open and close your mouth, move your jaw sideways, backward, and forward. This joint works together with the muscles, ligaments, and bones in your mouth and jaw to fulfill everyday functions such as chewing and speaking. Your Texas dentist can examine your mouth and jaw in order to determine if you have TMD and provide you with the appropriate treatment.

TMD has a variety of symptoms that differs from one person to another. This may include:

• Pain in the face, jaw joint, neck, shoulders and around the ears especially when you speak or chew
• Clicking and popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Limited movement of the jaw
• Inability to open the mouth wide
• An uncomfortable bite
• Frequent headaches

Do you experience these symptoms? Dr. John M. Hucklebridge of Plano Smile Studio can help you deal with TMD. It’s important to visit his dental clinic right away, so he can review your oral health, perform a clinical examination, and take X-rays and other tests to determine the root cause of your jaw problem. Proper diagnosis is necessary before recommending any treatment.

Depending on your case, he may recommend non-surgical treatments like medications and therapy. Anti-inflammatory medications and prescription muscle relaxants can help relieve the pain. Moist heat and stretching exercises can relax your jaw muscles as well. If non-invasive treatments are ineffective, then he may recommend you to undergo jaw joint surgery, especially for cases of severe TMD.
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For more information about TMD, please get in touch with your Plano TX dentist by calling 972-398-2550 today.