TMJ / TMD
People often use the terms TMJ and TMD interchangeably, but they mean different things. TMJ is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint, while TMD refers to temporomandibular joint dysfunction. However, this distinction is probably of little concern if you deal with TMJ/TMD in Cohasset, MA. Cohasset Dental understands that you just want to feel better.
What is a TMJ? How Do You Develop TMD?
You have a TMJ on each side of your face, and their purpose is to connect your jaw and skull together. Without TMJs, you could not open your mouth to speak, eat, and complete several other functions.
TMJs can become inflamed for various reasons. Below are the most typical causes of this common disorder, which affects up to 12 percent of the population.
- Arthritis of the jaw
- Injury to the face
- Improper tooth alignment, also known as malocclusion
- Teeth grinding and clenching that weakens and wears down tooth enamel. The habit of grinding and clenching often occurs while you are sleeping, so you may not even realize that you are doing it.
- Unrelenting stress
Figuring out why you have TMD is not nearly as important as seeking treatment for it as soon as possible. We encourage you to schedule an exam at Cohasset Dental if you recognize one or more of these symptoms:
- Change in the way your top and bottom rows of teeth fit together
- A clicking or popping sound when you open your jaw
- Earaches
- Headaches or migraines
- Opening your mouth fully is challenging
- Pain in the jaw, ears, neck, shoulders, and/or face
- Ringing in the ears, which is called tinnitus
- Toothaches
Although these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have TMD, getting a prompt evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment is critical for your long-term oral health.
Treatment for TMD
Eliminating or reducing stress as much as possible is one of the best things you can do if you have unconscious habits that threaten your oral health. Many patients do well by wearing a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding, while others do better with prescription medication. We urge you not to ignore the symptoms of TMJ/TMD in Cohasset, MA. Help is available. Please reach out to request an exam at Cohasset Dental today.
