ONE OUT OF EIGHT PEOPLE in the United States are living with pain related to TMD every day. Thankfully, if diagnosed and treated correctly, relief is just around the corner.
Common Symptoms of TMD
TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is pain and discomfort caused by problems with the jaw, jaw joint, and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw.
Common TMD symptoms include:
- Jaw muscle stiffness; limited movement or locking of the jaw
- Painful clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint
- Chronic headaches/migraines
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
- Earaches or ringing ears
TMD Has Multiple Causes
Adding to TMD’s complexity, there can be multiple causes. While an autoimmune disease or various forms of arthritis can affect your temporomandibular joint, some lesser known causes of TMD include bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching), bad bite, and stress.
Depending on your symptoms, various treatments and orthodontic solutions are available such as:
- Muscle relaxation techniques/stress management
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Surgery
Dr. Gorczyca has additional training in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). At Gorczyca Orthodontics, we are frequently able to reduce TMD pain by use of the TMD splint adjusted especially for you. Pain levels are usually able to be reduced in a few weeks from levels described as 4 or higher down to a 1 or often 0 or no pain at all.
Once your TMD pain symptoms have been resolved, often your bite may need improved through orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign.
Don’t Suffer Needlessly!
If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD or have any questions, make an appointment to come visit us. We’re here to help relieve your pain and regain your quality of life!
Call us at (925) 757-9000 for a complimentary orthodontic evaluation if you have questions about temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) or your bite. At Gorczyca Orthodontics, we can help you make TMD pain a thing of the past.
