Temporal mandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporal mandibular joint (TMJ), and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Symptoms may include:
- jaw pain
- joint noise (popping or clicking)
- jaw locking
- limited opening
- headache
- pain in front of the ear (without infection)
- pain when chewing
TMD symptoms can be acute or chronic. Acute symptoms may begin after trauma to the head/neck or opening too wide. Acute conditions often heal on their own but evaluation and treatment as soon as possible can help healing and prevent chronic TMD conditions. Chronic TMD conditions can have multiple causes such as: growth and development abnormalities, grinding of the teeth during the day or night, poor alignment of the teeth, and history of head or neck trauma.
TREATMENT OF TMD:
After a comprehensive exam is completed, a diagnosis is rendered and then an individual plan is formulated. Initial therapy is non-invasive and could include the following:
- range of motion exercises/referral to physical therapist
- medications such as: muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, steroids
- splint therapy (custom fabricated mouthguards that reposition the lower jaw to help eliminate or reduce grinding/clenching of teeth)
If initial therapy is unsuccessful, then further treatment may be recommended:
-orthodontics
-jaw surgery
-dental restorations
If you feel you suffer from jaw pain (TMD), please contact our office at (920) 725-2533 option 3 to schedule an appointment today!
