Ways To Reduce Signs Of TMD

SOLUTIONS ARE ACCESSIBLE FOR THOSE STRUGGLING WITH TMD
Throughout the day you utilize your jaw numerous times. Because of this reason, soreness in your jaw may be a significant concern. Throughout this article, we evaluate the condition known as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder), which causes pain in your jaw. For individuals in Aurora, IL who have TMD, there are numerous innovative treatments that can help alleviate your symptoms and evaluate the root cause. If you experience continual pain in your jaw, as well as difficulties opening and closing your mouth, call DentalWorks- Aurora to arrange a complete oral health examination with our team of highly qualified dental professionals. Let’s start by finding out more about TMD and TMJ…

DISSIMILARITIES 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 learn the definition of TMJ and TMD. Commonly referred to as TMJ for short, the temporomandibular joints exist as the two sliding hinge joints joining your mandible (jawbone) to the other parts of your skull. When one or both of these joints become irritated or cause pain, it is known as a temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMD. In short, TMJ is your jaw joint, and TMD is a condition with your TMJ.

SIGNS OF TMD
side effects of TMD may range from slight discomfort to significant pain. If you notice signs of TMD and talk about them with your dentist, your treatment process could be less invasive. If you identify any of the following issues, set up an appointment with your experienced dentist in Aurora, IL as soon as possible:

  • SORE, INFLAMED JAW
    When you feel along your jaw, it may feel inflamed or tender if you have TMD. This can make it tough to eat or speak.
  • SOUNDS WHEN YOUR JAW MOVES
    Along with pain and irritation when moving your jaw, you might hear a clicking or popping noise as you open or close your mouth.
  • STRUGGLES WITH CHEWING OR SPEAKING
    If it is hard or painful for you to chew or speak, you could have TMD. This can get continually worse with time; therefore, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.
  • PROBLEMS WHEN OPENING OR CLOSING YOUR MOUTH
    As TMD develops, it may feel like your jaw is difficult to move and will not smoothly open or close. At this point, it’s essential to make an emergency appointment with your dental professional to obtain treatment.
  • SORENESS IN YOUR TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTS OR EARS
    The temporomandibular joint is positioned right close to your ear, therefore, when you have TMD, it could stimulate discomfort in and around your ears.

SOURCES OF TMD
The reason for TMD is different from patient to patient, because there are numerous reasons why TMD can develop. One of the most recurring 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 as it should. High spots on your natural teeth or a dental restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture may affect this and negatively affect how your jaw operates. Bruxism, a problem identified as clenching the jaw and grinding the teeth either throughout the day or at night (nocturnal bruxism), could result in inflammation due to overusing the jaw muscles, causing TMD. It can surprise some people in Aurora, IL to know that even excessive gum chewing can lead to a flare-up of TMD.

RECOGNIZING TMD
Despite the fact that there is no consistent test available to detect TMD, the dental professionals at DentalWorks- Aurora will provide an in-depth oral health evaluation on patients who experience jaw discomfort. In most cases, oral exams consist of an evaluation of jaw movement in order to detect any signs of jaw clenching, misalignment, grinding, soreness, or inflammation. Imaging, including full-mouth digital x-rays, can also help your dentist to accurately identify TMD and help them to create the best course of treatment.

TMD REMEDIES
Therapy for your TMD symptoms will be personalized based on the reason for the condition and the level of your pain. Your dentist will effectively diagnose your TMD before formulating a treatment plan. This could include one or several professional treatments for lasting results, along with recommendations for home methods that can lead to faster, short-term alleviation from your TMD complications.

  • EVALUATE YOUR POSTURE
    Another therapy for alleviating TMD pain includes initiating simple enhancements to your posture. For example, avoiding resting your chin on your hand since this position places extra pressure on the jaw. Additionally, try sitting with your back pressed along a chair back to avoid slouching. It might help to decrease stress levels overall by practicing various relaxation and meditation methods, including breathing exercises.
  • HOME THERAPIES
    People can do numerous things at home to help diminish TMJ discomfort and symptoms. When it comes to diet, consuming soft foods that are easy to chew can alleviate wear and tear on the jaw. Heat and ice packs placed on the jaw area can decrease discomfort, as well as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, including Advil. In some cases, your dentist might prescribe anti-anxiety medications and muscle relaxants if your jaw joints are stiff or you are clenching your jaw throughout the day because of stress and anxiety.
  • AN ORTHODONTIC SOLUTION
    Misalignment, commonly known as dental malocclusion, may put stress on your TMJ resulting in TMD. To eliminate the pressure on your jaw joints and grant you a more even smile, your experienced dentist might recommend orthodontic treatment. Depending on your needs and goals, this could comprise of traditional metal braces or the even more state-of-the-art option, Invisalign. Using invisible, removable aligners, the advanced Invisalign system gently shifts your teeth into their appropriate position without the hindrances of metal braces. To discover more about Invisalign, set up an appointment with the dental professionals at our Aurora, IL office.
  • NIGHT GUARD
    Numerous people have nocturnal bruxism, a condition that means they tighten their jaw and grind their teeth at night. This may cause inflammation and discomfort in your jaw joints. A personalized night guard created by your dentist may help preserve your jaw in the proper position while you sleep and defend your teeth against the effects of grinding.

REDUCE YOUR TMJ PAIN
Individuals in Aurora, IL who notice jaw pain or other signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), we encourage you to contact your dentist to arrange an oral health examination and consultation. At DentalWorks- Aurora in Aurora, IL we provide a diagnosis of TMD, as well as multiple treatment options. Our team of dental professionals aim to help every patient enhance their oral health so they can have a comfortable, restored smile they can show off without pain.