The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and is responsible for the movement and function of your jaw. When you experience discomfort or pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, this is known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). TMD can be a debilitating condition that can cause chronic pain in the face and head, as well as in the neck and shoulders. If left untreated, TMD can also lead to long-term problems in the structural system of the jaw.
If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD, it is important to seek treatment as early as possible. And for those residing in Bullard, there is a trustworthy, local resource for quality TMJ treatment. Before diving into that, let’s briefly discuss the symptoms of TMD and the most common treatments.
Symptoms of TMD
There are a variety of symptoms associated with TMD. Most commonly, individuals with TMD may experience pain in the jaw, ears, or head. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be constant or intermittent. Other symptoms include difficulty or discomfort eating, clicking or popping noises when opening and closing the mouth, lockjaw, as well as earaches. In addition, individuals may also experience muscle stiffness or grinding of the teeth.
Common Behaviors and Conditions That Can Aggravate TMD
There are a variety of behaviors and conditions that can aggravate TMD or cause it to flare up, including bruxism (teeth grinding), clenching the jaw, excessive gum chewing, and stress. In addition to these behaviors, conditions such as arthritis, dental misalignment, poor posture, and prior traumatic injuries to the jaw joint can also contribute to TMD.
Common Treatments for TMD
The most common methods for treating TMD typically involve self-care measures, such as alternating between placing a cold pack and warm pack on the affected area, eating soft foods, as well as avoiding extreme opening and closing of the jaw. Physical therapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care are also often employed with individuals seeking relief from TMD.
Orthodontic treatment and bite splints, also known as bite guards, are other common treatments for TMD. These devices help to reposition the jaw and teeth into a more ideal alignment, which can help to alleviate discomfort. Surgical intervention may also be a treatment option in more extreme cases of TMD. With this type of treatment, the temporomandibular joint can be operated on in order to repair structural damage and improve function.
Local Resource for TMJ Treatment in Bullard
Allwin Dental is a reliable local resource for TMJ treatment in Bullard. The experienced dental professionals at Allwin Dental understand the complexities of TMD and are trained in a variety of methods to address TMJ-related issues. From TMJ-specific radiology techniques to bite splints, Allwin Dental has the technology and expertise necessary to restore proper function to the jaw joint.
In addition to physical treatment, the dental professionals at Allwin Dental can also help patients identify behaviors or conditions that may be contributing to TMD. With this knowledge, patients are better equipped to make the necessary lifestyle changes in order to prevent future flare ups.
If you are in search of effective, reliable TMJ treatment in the Bullard area, look no further than Allwin Dental. Their team is dedicated to helping individuals overcome their TMD-related discomfort through the use of advanced techniques and modern dental technology. To learn more about TMJ treatment at Allwin Dental and to schedule an appointment, visit their website today.
Don’t let the discomfort or pain associated with TMD disrupt your life. Take the first step towards lasting relief by seeking out the trusted, local resource for TMJ treatment in Bullard- Allwin Dental.