Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) occur when there is stress or injury to the joints that aid in speaking and chewing. These joints connect the skull to the jaw bone. Patients with TMD can experience uncomfortable symptoms and pain in the teeth, face, and jaw. Discover more about TMJ disorders with FAQs about symptoms and treatment in our Dallas, TX dental office. We help patients manage this bite disorder and find the best solutions to their specific TMJ problems.
FAQs: TMJ Disorders in Dallas, TX
Read answers to commonly asked questions about TMD or TMJ disorders:
How do I know if I have a TMJ disorder?
There are many common signs of TMD, including:
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Orofacial pain
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Earaches
- Tooth wear
Please contact a professional dentist for care if you have any of these symptoms. Over time, TMJ disorders can wear down the teeth and temporomandibular joints.
Do I have TMD if I have headaches?
Although headaches and facial pain are common symptoms of TMD, they do not always indicate a TMJ problem. Patients may also have chronic headaches because of stress, certain medications, and health conditions. We will consider multiple symptoms when diagnosing and treating patients with TMD.
What is the main cause of TMJ disorders?
Strain to the jaw joints and muscles caused by involuntary teeth and jaw clenching can lead to TMD. Patients with injuries to these joints can also experience TMJ disorders.
How do nightguards help with TMD?
Wearing a nightguard can stop patients from clenching and grinding their teeth. Additionally, the nightguard protects teeth from wear and damage due to bruxism. A properly fitted nightguard relieves TMJ and facial tension because it stops bruxism. Many patients who wear a nightguard also relieve chronic migraines and headaches.
Can TMJ disorders affect your ears?
Yes, TMD can affect the ears because the ear canal is close to the temporomandibular joints. Some TMD patients can experience earaches and severe ear pain due to their TMJ disorders.
Can TMD go away on its own?
In some cases, symptoms of TMD will worsen over time. However, if patients have very mild TMD and immediately treat their symptoms, they can relieve pain and discomfort. If your symptoms have worsened, please call our office. We will work with you to find the best solution for your symptoms, whether it’s a nightguard or a combination of a soft diet and physical therapy.
Call our office today for restorative dental care at 214.216.6577. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. William Huckin online. Please let us know if you have any more questions about TMD, and we will be glad to help.