Things That May Lead to Increased TMD Problems
Posted on 9/7/2020 by SRD Russellville |
 If you have a temporomandibular disorder or TMD, it has to do with pain in the jaw joints, specifically the lower jawbone or mandible. Sometimes patients complain that the pain has worsened. The following information will define TMD and note why this may happen.
What Is TMD and What Are the Symptoms?
TMD, also called TMJ, is a jawbone joint disorder that affects jaw movement and is characterized by pain in and around the joints of the jaw. These joints connect the skull and mandible. Indeed, it is easy to see why pain may occur, as this joint is used more than any other joints in the body. You use your temporomandibular joint a lot, as it supports swallowing, yawning, talking, and chewing. Symptoms of TMD include joint pain, muscle pain, headache, jaw locking, and trouble opening and closing your mouth. In some instances, the pain becomes chronic, making it difficult for a patient to swallow, talk, or eat.
What Causes TMD and What Will Make It Worse?
TMD may be diagnosed after a neck or shoulder injury, which also affects the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. Joint discomfort can also develop if the shape of the joint throws the joint out of alignment. Diseases, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can trigger TMD as well. If the articular disc that cushions the temporomandibular joint becomes misaligned, it will affect the health of the joint. What makes TMD worse is when you are feeling anxious or stressed, or you don't have the cause pinpointed. Often, people react to stress by grinding their teeth, thereby placing more pressure on the TMD joint. To alleviate the problem, we advise patients to learn ways to de-stress, such as practicing yoga, getting more sleep, and eating healthier.
If you have TMD, we will try to do all we can to alleviate your joint discomfort. We may have to prescribe medication or provide a mouth guard at night to keep you from grinding your teeth. Call our office to schedule an exam if you suffer from TMD or need to have teeth filled. Also, visit our office every six months, so you can minimize the pain associated with TMD and other dental problems.
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