Understanding TMD: Why Expertise Matters

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD/TMJ) encompass over 30 different conditions that cause pain and impaired function in the jaw joint and the muscles responsible for jaw movement. Many cases will resolve independently with over-the-counter painkillers and rest; however, in some cases, you need to seek professional help and speak to a dentist with experience treating these types of issues.

So, what is TMD, and why is it important to seek help if you experience jaw issues? In this article, we will examine TMD, its causes, and why it’s so important to find a dentist who has experience treating TMD.

What Is TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw to your skull and is crucial to chewing, talking, and opening and closing your mouth. You have two temporomandibular joints, and together with a collection of muscles, ligaments, and nerves, they control movement in your lower jaw.

The TMJ is considered one of the most complex joints in the human body, and issues with the joint can lead to TMD — temporomandibular disorder, an umbrella term covering over 30 different types of disorders of the lower jaw. There are three main classes of TMDs:  

• Disorders of the joint itself
• Disorders of the jaw muscles
• Headaches associated with TMD.  

Your dentist will be able to determine which class of TMD your symptoms fall under.

Symptoms of TMD include:

• Jaw pain and stiffness on one or both sides of the jaw
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Headaches and earaches
• Hearing problems or tinnitus
• Difficulty chewing
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
• A jaw that gets stuck or locks when opening or closing
• Dizziness

What Causes TMD?

It’s not yet known what causes all the disorders that sit under the TMD term, although it’s thought that symptoms may be caused by issues with parts of the joint or the muscles surrounding it. Some conditions which are known to trigger TMD in some cases (but not all) include:

       1. Misalignment of the jaw or teeth

       2. Bruxism (teeth grinding)

       3. Arthritis in the TMJ

       4. Trauma or injury to the jaw

When Should You Seek Help for Jaw Pain?

Most TMD symptoms will clear up in three weeks or so, but if your symptoms last longer, it’s time to seek further help and speak with an experienced dentist. A dentist will discuss your health history with you and then check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. These include tooth decay, sinus issues, and arthritis. They will also check your jaw for pain, listen to any sounds made when you open and close your mouth and look at your jaw’s general functioning. They may also test your bite and determine how your top and bottom teeth are aligned.

What Are the Treatment Options for TMD?

Treatment for TMD can vary depending on what your dentist finds in their investigations. Lifestyle changes like stress management or jaw exercises can help alleviate or manage your symptoms. If teeth grinding is triggering your discomfort, a bite guard may help. Your treatment plan may include at-home treatments, over-the-counter medications and moist heat or cold packs to relieve symptoms.

For more serious issues, you may require orthodontic treatment or surgery to correct the issue. Your dentist can advise you on the best treatments for your case.

Why Seek Expertise in TMD Treatment?

Consulting a knowledgeable dentist or specialist will give you an accurate diagnosis, leading to effective treatment. Your treatment can then be tailored to you and based on your needs, minimizing any risks or complications you may encounter. Not seeking expertise delays proper treatment, will often exacerbate your symptoms, and may, in some extreme cases, lead to permanent damage to the jaw.  

Finding Expert Help for TMD in Stuart, Florida

Here at Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart, Dr. Crary and Dr. Rebeca Viego offer unique treatments for TMD based on whole-body wellness. We offer a multi-phase treatment process that allows us to develop a bespoke treatment plan for you. We start by using 3D imaging, electromyography and jaw tracking to understand what’s happening in your jaw.

Using a combination of proven dentistry treatments and adjunctive therapies, such as MLS Laser Therapy and TENS, we can build an effective treatment plan that meets your needs.  

If you are looking for a dentist in Stuart FL who offers treatment for TMD, call us today at (772) 463-4026 to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns or request an appointment online.

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