If you’re experiencing persistent jaw discomfort, clicking sounds when you chew, or frequent headaches, you may have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This condition affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, leading to tension, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities like eating and speaking. At our Charlotte, NC office, we provide customized treatment solutions to restore comfort and improve jaw function.
Schedule a consultation today to explore the right treatment plan for you.
What Is The TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most important joints in the body, allowing smooth movement when you talk, chew, and yawn. When the TMJ is functioning properly, you don’t even think about it. However, when it becomes strained or misaligned, it can lead to chronic discomfort and restricted movement.
- Located on both sides of the jaw, the TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull.
- Acts as a hinge, allowing proper jaw function.
- Can become irritated due to injury, misalignment, or overuse.
What Is TMD?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs when the TMJ is inflamed or not functioning correctly, leading to jaw discomfort and other related symptoms. Many patients experience mild symptoms that come and go, while others develop chronic discomfort that impacts their daily lives.
- TMD is a common condition that affects millions of people.
- Can result from jaw misalignment, stress, or underlying health conditions.
- Often leads to difficulty chewing, facial tension, and headaches.
Signs & Symptoms Of TMD
TMD symptoms can range from mild to severe, often worsening over time if left untreated. Patients experiencing the following signs should seek professional care:
- Jaw discomfort or tenderness, especially in the morning.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw.
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully.
- Frequent headaches or migraines.
- Earaches or a feeling of pressure in the ears.
- Facial tension or discomfort.
- Jaw locking in an open or closed position.
If you recognize these symptoms, early intervention can help prevent further complications.
Causes & Risk Factors Associated With TMD
Several factors contribute to TMD development, and understanding the cause is key to effective treatment. While some cases result from physical trauma, others are due to habits or underlying conditions.
- Teeth grinding and jaw clenching (bruxism): Places excessive strain on the TMJ.
- Bite misalignment: An uneven bite can stress the jaw joint.
- Arthritis: Inflammation can contribute to joint deterioration.
- Stress and muscle tension: Increased tension can lead to involuntary jaw clenching.
- Jaw injury or trauma: Direct impact can cause lasting joint damage.
Treatment For TMD
Our dental care providers offer customized solutions to help alleviate TMD discomfort and restore proper jaw function. The right treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms and underlying causes.
Nightguards
A custom-fitted nightguard is a simple yet highly effective solution for many patients with TMD. This oral appliance is worn while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding and clenching, two common causes of jaw discomfort. By keeping the jaw in a more relaxed position, a nightguard can significantly reduce tension and protect teeth from unnecessary wear. Benefits of wearing a nightguard:
- Prevents teeth grinding and clenching while you sleep.
- Reduces jaw muscle tension to minimize discomfort.
- Protects teeth from excessive wear and damage.
- Promotes a healthier TMJ by allowing it to rest properly.
Occlusal Adjustment
If an uneven bite is contributing to your TMD symptoms, an occlusal adjustment may be the solution. This treatment involves carefully reshaping minor areas of the teeth to create a more balanced bite, reducing strain on the TMJ and allowing for smoother jaw function. How occlusal adjustment can help:
- Corrects bite misalignment that may be causing stress on the TMJ.
- Distributes chewing forces evenly to reduce joint strain.
- Enhances overall jaw function for long-term relief.
- Eliminates minor interferences that can lead to excessive pressure on certain teeth.
Orthodontics
For some patients, TMD symptoms stem from improper tooth or jaw alignment. In these cases, orthodontic treatment can be an effective way to correct misalignment and relieve strain on the TMJ. Straightening the teeth and improving the bite helps the jaw function more efficiently, reducing tension and discomfort over time. How orthodontic treatment helps with TMD:
- Aligns the teeth and jaw to create a balanced bite.
- Reduces unnecessary strain on the TMJ.
- Improves long-term jaw function and comfort.
- Prevents further wear on the teeth caused by misalignment.
Facial Rejuvenation
For patients who experience chronic jaw tension and headaches, facial rejuvenation treatments can help relax overworked jaw muscles. Injectables are used to reduce clenching and minimize muscle strain, providing relief from the discomfort associated with TMD. Benefits of facial rejuvenation for TMD:
- Relaxes overactive jaw muscles to ease tension.
- Reduces jaw clenching and associated headaches.
- Improves overall comfort by decreasing strain on the TMJ.
- Provides a non-invasive solution for long-term relief.
