TREATMENTS ARE ACCESSIBLE FOR THOSE STRUGGLING WITH TMD
Each day you utilize your jaw many times. Because of this reason, pain in your jaw may be a significant issue. Throughout this article, we explore the condition known as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder), which leads to pain in your jaw. For individuals in Chicago, IL who have TMD, there are many innovative treatments that can help manage your symptoms and address the root cause. If you experience chronic pain in your jaw, as well as difficulties opening and closing your mouth, call DentalWorks – Chicago Loop to arrange a comprehensive oral health examination with our team of experienced dental professionals. Let’s start by finding out more about TMD and TMJā¦
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TMJ AND TMD
The initials utilized in the article are similar, therefore, it could get difficult to understand. Let’s take a minute to discuss the definition of TMJ and TMD. Abbreviated as TMJ for short, the temporomandibular joints exist as the two sliding hinge joints connecting your mandible (jawbone) to the other parts of your skull. When one or both of these joints become inflamed or cause pain, it is classified as a temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMD. In short, TMJ is your jaw joint, and TMD is a problem with your TMJ.
SYMPTOMS OF TMD
side effects of TMD may range from mild discomfort to significant pain. If you notice symptoms of TMD and talk about them with your dentist, your treatment process could be less invasive. If you notice any of the following issues, schedule an appointment with your experienced dentist in Chicago, IL as soon as possible:
SOURCES OF TMD
The reason for TMD varies from patient to patient, because there are many reasons why TMD can develop. One of the most common is arthritis in or an injury to your jawbone. A misaligned bite, referred to as malocclusion, might also be a cause. When biting down properly, the teeth should meet together and rest in alignment, so the mouth can close comfortably. High spots on your natural teeth or a dental restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture may prevent this and negatively affect how your jaw operates. Bruxism, a condition identified as clenching the jaw and grinding the teeth either throughout the day or at night (nocturnal bruxism), could cause inflammation due to overusing the jaw muscles, causing TMD. It can surprise some people in Chicago, IL to learn that even excessive gum chewing can cause a flare-up of TMD.
RECOGNIZING TMD
Although there is no consistent test available to detect TMD, the dental professionals at DentalWorks – Chicago Loop will provide a comprehensive oral health evaluation on patients who complain of jaw discomfort. Typically, oral exams consist of an evaluation of jaw movement in order to identify any signs of jaw clenching, misalignment, grinding, soreness, or inflammation. Imaging, including full-mouth digital x-rays, may also help your dentist to accurately identify TMD and help them to determine the best course of treatment.
TMD REMEDIES
Treatment for your TMD symptoms will be personalized based on the reason for the condition and the level of your pain. Your dentist will carefully diagnose your TMD before suggesting a treatment plan. This could include one or several professional treatments for lasting improvements, along with recommendations for home methods that can provide faster, short-term alleviation from your TMD complications.
DECREASE YOUR TMJ PAIN
Individuals in Chicago, IL who notice jaw pain or other symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), we encourage you to contact your dentist to schedule an oral health examination and consultation. At DentalWorks – Chicago Loop in Chicago, IL we provide a diagnosis of TMD, as well as several treatment options. Our team of dental professionals strive to help every patient enhance their oral health so they can have a comfortable, restored smile they can show off without pain.