TMJ & TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)
A Simple Solution for a Pain-Free Life
Do you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines? Do you clench and grind your teeth? Does your jaw lock up or feel painful or tired? Are you at your wits end with trying different medications and therapies with no relief? We may know the source of your problem, and we may be able to not only relieve your pain, but prevent it with a simple, non-invasive treatment.
What is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, or the jaw joint. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder, and refers to any dysfunction of the jaw joint. These two terms are often used interchangeably, and sometimes even called TMJD. To keep things simple, we’ll use TMD here.
TMD is characterized by:
- Teeth grinding & clenching (bruxism)
- Jaw pain & stiffness
- Jaw popping & locking
- Chronic headaches & migraines
- Myofascial pain (face, head, neck, shoulders)
What Causes TMD?
There are many factors that can contribute to TMD problems, but the number one factor is stress. We all hold our stress in different parts of our bodies, and patients who suffer from TMD tend to hold theirs in their jaw joint. This results in excessive clenching and grinding, and chronic tension and myofascial pain. Other causes of TMD include teeth and bite misalignment, as well as whiplash or other traumatic injuries.
What Can Your Dentist Do?
Many patients are skeptical that a dentist can relieve their head and neck pain, but the truth is, your dentist is in a unique position to detect, diagnose, and treat TMD with a simple, non-invasive treatment. Oral appliance therapy uses a custom appliance worn like a mouth guard during sleep to prevent the clenching and grinding that creates the tension that’s causing your pain. Oral appliance therapy can not only treat your pain, but prevent it from happening in the first place.
Give Us A Call!
If you’re ready to remember what it was like to live a pain-free life, you’ve come to the right place. If you have any questions about TMJ/TMD or oral appliance therapy, or would like to schedule an appointment with your Belleville dentist – Dr. Yakowicz at Neighborhood Smiles – give us a call today at (608) 424-3222.
[fc id=’1′][/fc]
