TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. An i
ssue with your jaw joint can cause pain and compromise any movement of the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
Your temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw to your skull's temporal bones, which are in front of each ear. It lets you move your jaw up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn.
Issues that involve your TMJ (jaw joint) and muscles that control it fall under temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
What Causes TMD?
Various issues cause TMD, and they can involve the joint or the muscles that support it.
Your jaw joint area can get injured—for example, from whiplash or accident. Other causes include:
- Arthritis
- Grinding your teeth
- Stress and anxiety
The Symptoms of TMD
TMD can often be very painful, and each patient has a different symptoms. Every case is different, but for many people, they include:
- Pain in your jaw joints, face, neck, and around the ear
- Pain when you open or close your mouth
- Problems chewing and eating
- Issues opening your mouth wide
- Clicking noises when you eat or open your mouth
- Inflammation on the side of your face
Treating TMD at Nicole E. Pagonis, DDS
At the dental office of Nicole E Pagonis, DDS, we offer solutions to manage your pain and treat your unique symptoms. Your treatment plan might involve a TMJ-friendly diet (soft foods and soups), hot or cold packs, over-the-counter medications, nightguard, or orthodontic treatments.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or other dental issues, you may need emergency dentistry Los Gatos, CA. Never hesitate to contact us, we are always available for you.
Give your dentist in 95032 a call today to schedule your TMD appointment with Dr. Pagonis.