What is TMJ Disorder? – TMD Treatment Andheri West
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the one that connects your lower jaw with the skull. It is made up of bones, muscles, and ligaments. This joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw. Any pain or discomfort in this joint will lead to difficulty in chewing.
TMD is a temporomandibular joint disorder that causes pain or discomfort while moving the jaw. If you have discomfort while moving the jaw while eating, you might have TMD. So do we have any solution to it?
The good news is that, yes, there are different treatment options available. We will briefly discuss temporomandibular joint disorder using the information provided below, which was brought to you by Smile Concepts Dental Clinic Lokhandwala.
TMD symptoms – TMD Treatment Andheri West
The main symptom of TMD is pain in the area just ahead of your ear where the joint is placed. It can be a dull, aching pain or a sharp shooting one. It is usually increased while chewing or moving the jaw.
You might feel clicking or popping noises while opening and closing the jaw. The pain can be localized or can radiate to the surrounding areas. It can spread to the temple area, ear, and even neck.
Ear pain may be associated with tinnitus and ear stuffiness. It can be so severe that it hampers chewing abilities. Hence, timely treatment is essential.
What causes TMD? – TMD Treatment Andheri West
A temporomandibular joint disorder can be caused by a problem with the joint, directly or indirectly, due to the teeth. Misaligned or crooked teeth can lead to excessive joint pressure, leading to jaw wear and tear.
A complete clinical examination is essential to determining the root cause of the problem. Trauma to the joint can also be a definite cause of TMD.
Developmental problems or structural anomalies of the joint can also lead to TMD.
Our team at Smile Concepts Dental Clinic Lokhandwala will help you identify the root cause of the problem.
Diagnosis of TMD – TMD Treatment Andheri West
A correct diagnosis is essential to formulating a customized treatment plan. To understand the cause of pain, a clinical examination followed by a radiographic analysis is performed.
Clinical examination is done to rule out toothache, sinusitis, migraine, and other causes of pain that mimic TMD.
You must be transparent and descriptive when describing the history of the pain. Our team will ask a few questions about pain’s nature, severity, and frequency to rule out other conditions.
Treatment options – TMD Treatment Andheri West
In some mild cases, medications work well to relieve the pain. Muscle relaxants can also be prescribed. It is important not to self-medicate.
Always seek proper consultation and then take medicines if suggested by the doctor. If the cause of pain is dental, correcting the condition is essential for a permanent cure.
Sometimes, teeth grinding causes excess pressure, and then nightguards are suggested.
Behavioral changes
Hard food items should be avoided. Shift to a softer diet to avoid triggering the pain. Do not open your mouth wide open.
Deep breathing and meditation also work well indirectly for stress management. Avoid parafunctional habits like nail biting and chewing on pens or pencils.
Nonsurgical options
Ultrasound therapy and TENS therapy are some nonsurgical ways to manage TMD. Radiowave therapy and injections at the trigger points can also be suggested in a few cases. For dental-related TMD pain, we need to identify the root cause. Braces and aligners are indicated for correcting misaligned teeth. A nightguard will help with teeth grinding habits.
Surgical option
Surgical measures are often considered a last resort. If nonsurgical and behavioral changes do not work, surgical options are available.
Our team of oral surgeons can plan arthroscopic and open-joint surgery to treat chronic TMD. It is in your best interest to get a complete examination to determine the best option for you.
Book your appointment now to learn more. Our Smile Concepts Dental Clinic Lokhandwala team will help you with a customized treatment plan. Do not wait and take timely action to avoid complications.