TMD Therapy
Do you suffer from jaw pain, headaches, or trouble opening and closing your mouth? These symptoms could be a sign of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder), which can significantly impact your daily life. But don’t worry; Dental Care of Jackson Hole is here to help with TMD therapy in Jackson!
Our experienced dentists specialize in TMD therapy to alleviate discomfort and improve oral health. We use advanced techniques and personalized treatment plans to target the root cause of your TMD.
Say goodbye to TMD pain and schedule an appointment with us today! Don’t let this condition hold you back any longer.
What is Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction?
Tempro-mandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMD, is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. This joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw, allowing us to speak, chew, and yawn. However, when this joint malfunctions, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. If you suspect you have TMD, seeking medical advice and treatment to manage your symptoms and prevent further damage to the joint is essential.
What Are the Symptoms of TMD?
Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (TMJ or TMD) is a common condition affecting a wide variety of people. TMD may include:
- Severe headaches.
- Jaw pain of varying degrees.
- Grinding teeth.
- Intermittent ringing in the ears.
TMJ sufferers report that their symptoms generally worsen during periods of prolonged or unexpected stress and that intense outbreaks of the condition can lead to neck pain and dizziness.
The vast majority of TMJ sufferers are unaware that the root cause of these problems is something that a dentist can effectively treat.
The symptoms of TMJ are debilitating and can significantly interfere with everyday life. The comfort and general well-being of the patient are at the heart of our dental practice, so pain relief is the dentist’s first consideration. The dentist can test, diagnose, and devise an immediate plan to treat the underlying causes of the TMJ disorder.
Reasons for Treating TMJ
The most common cause of TMJ is the misalignment of the teeth, often called a “bad bite.” The dentist can realign or adjust the teeth without painful or expensive surgeries. The realignment/adjustment will stop the pounding headaches, the jaw pain, and the dizziness.
The grinding teeth symptom is prevalent and usually occurs at night. The grinding will eventually erode the structure of the teeth and lead to much more severe dental problems in the future. Untreated TMJ is a prime underlying factor in eroded jawbones and loose teeth.
It is essential for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit the dentist for an exact diagnosis.
What Does Treating TMJ Involve?
Initially, the dentist will thoroughly examine the jaw area and the patient’s bite, take x-rays, and review the patient’s history to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend necessary treatment.
Once we attain a firm diagnosis, there are several ways in which we can provide relief. A specially molded bite guard can be created to stop teeth grinding during the night. The dentist can also advise on relaxation techniques that will lessen the effects of stress. The dentist can also prescribe muscle relaxants.
Sometimes, the best approach is to change the shape of the teeth and get rid of the bad bite completely, often called “realignment.” This is especially useful because it alleviates TMJ symptoms and may improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth as well.
Realignment involves adjusting the relationship between how the upper teeth come together with the lower teeth. This may require new restorations and/or adjusting the natural teeth. As with any procedure, the dentist will happily answer questions and discuss symptoms, options, and treatments.
TMD Therapy in Jackson, Wyoming
A quality dental office provides more than just dental cleanings and dental fillings. We provide everything from restorative dentistry to sleep apnea treatment in Jackson, Wyoming.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ, we encourage you to contact Dental Care of Jackson Hole today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Paula J. Schmidt will be happy to help!