Temporomandibular Disorders

Do you have any pain in your face, jaw or ears? Do you have trouble chewing? Does your jaw clip or pop? These can be signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This term describes a group of problems related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and nearby muscles. Symptoms may be painful and frustrating. TMD causes many kinds of symptoms, that’s why it is hard to diagnose. Symptoms can include facial pain with jaw movement (this may come and go or be constant),trouble chewing, pain or soreness around the jaw, neck stiffness or pain, earaches or ear fullness, headaches or pain behind the eyes. If you are having TMD problems, call your dentist and schedule an appointment right away. The good news is, TMD can be treated. The key is learning to manage your condition at home. A goal of treatment is to rest the muscles and joint. This helps relieve the symptoms and restore good jaw function. Treatment plan may include temporary changes in food choice and eating habits, medication to reduce pain and inflammation, therapy to reduce pressure on the joint and restore function, dental treatment to reduce pressure on the joint and developing new habits for managing stress and maintaining the health of your jaw.
Conditions that can add to TMD issues are clenching or grinding and malocclusion.
Choose soft foods, use cold therapy as it helps reduce swelling and pain. Heat therapy helps relax muscles, increasing blood flow and reducing pain. Anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants can help ease muscle tension.
Getting a night guard helps protect your teeth from clenching and grinding. It helps reduce strain to the jaw joint and allows soft tissue to heal. Orthodontic treatment(braces) can correct malocclusion by placing teeth on alignment. This helps achieve a more comfortable bite, thus reducing strain on the muscles and joint.
TMD symptoms can be managed at home and by making sure to consult and visit your medical and dental professionals.
For more information, please call 661-255-2545. Our office is located at27420 Tourney Road, Suite 270 in Valencia.  You can also learn more at www.kimrosendds.com.