TMJ (Temporamandibular Joint)
Boise, ID
 Jaw pain is a common complaint we receive at Water's Edge Dental, but what is the cause? While there are many possibilities, more often than not it has something to do with your temporomandibular joints or TMJ. These joints make it possible for you to open and close your mouth. Located on each side of your jaw, your TMJ allow you to chew, speak, and swallow because they act like sliding hinges. They are the reason your lower jaw can move forward, backward, and side to side.
The TMJ is not only joints, but they also consist of muscles, connective ligaments, and bone. Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket that cushions the joint from the forces of your bite and enable your jaw to rotate, glide, and open wide. When a problem arises within this complex system, it may result in TMD or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.
What is TMD?
TMD includes a wide range of dysfunctions that often overlap with other afflictions, making diagnosis and treatment somewhat challenging. Some of these dysfunctions include:
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Muscular problems that disrupt jaw mobility
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Jaws that get locked in the open or closed position
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Tenderness or pain in the face, specifically the jaw joint area, neck, ears, or shoulders when you chew, speak or open your mouth
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Popping or clicking noises when you open or close your mouth
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Swelling of the jaw joint area
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Problems chewing or a painful bite
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Toothaches, headaches, earaches, dizziness, or ringing in the ears |
If you have any of the symptoms listed above, you may have TMD. TMD is most common among patients between the ages of 20 and 45. It can be temporary or last for several years, depending on the severity. Also, symptoms can go away without treatment and return without warning. However, most problems, whether muscular or within the joint, typically get better over time.
Causes and Diagnosis of TMD
While the exact cause may be hard to determine, injury to your jaw, especially the muscles or joint itself, typically leads to TMD. Injury to the muscles of your head and neck can also lead to TMD. Other possible causes include arthritis, teeth grinding or clenching, damage to the temporomandibular disc, and stress-related habits that put unnecessary pressure on the joint.
To determine if you have TMD, Dr. Geoffrey Herzog will examine to check the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking or popping noises, and difficulties with mobility. We will then ask you about your medical and dental histories to determine a possible cause. We may also use 3D imaging technology to view your jaws, joints, and teeth to rule out other afflictions.
Treatment for TMD
Because TMD often goes away on its own, a conservative approach is usually the best method of treatment. Before we move forward with treatment, Dr. Geoffrey Herzog will suggest eating softer foods, avoiding chewing gum and biting your nails, using heat pads on your neck, and practicing relaxation techniques. If pain persists, we may suggest certain medications or a plastic night guard. Anti-anxiety medications can help reduce or control stress-related habits that may lead to TMD. A night guard lessens the effects of nocturnal bruxism or tooth grinding, and can even be used to put your teeth in a correct position.
Schedule Your Appointment
Dr. Geoffrey Herzog and have extensive experience in helping to reduce pain and perfect your smile. We will work closely with you to determine the treatment plan that is most ideally suited to your individual needs. If you are experiencing jaw pain or think you may have TMD, call (208) 391-8554 today! |
