Do you ever get earaches, headaches, or jaw pain? You could be among the numerous people suffering from TMD, which stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. As a result of the pain it causes, your daily activities and general quality of life may be negatively affected. Fortunately, TMD can be treated in a variety of methods.
Explain the condition known as TMJ.
Temporomandibular joint syndrome results from problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge between the jaw and the skull. Moving this joint is to speak, eat, and otherwise manipulate the mouth. Muscles and a tendon called the temporal tendon connect the bones at this joint, just like they do at every other joint in the body.
What exactly is transverse myelitis (TMD)?
Disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are referred to as TMD. Arthritis is one example of a condition that can affect this joint, which causes stiffness and occasional pain when moving. Pain in the mouth, cheek, or ear, as well as difficulties chewing, are common complaints, and these issues can be brief or chronic.
TMD can be caused by a combination of factors, including heredity, habits such as tooth grinding, illness, or accident. Identifying the root cause of these conditions will give you and your Fort Walton Beach dentist a better idea of how to approach treatment.
Diagnosing and treating TMJ
After conducting diagnostic imaging and a comprehensive oral exam, your dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan for TMD. In severe situations, medication, therapy, and surgical correction are typical treatments for TMD.
Medication Anti-inflammatory medicines are commonly used to treat TMD to lessen the discomfort associated with chronic inflammation. A tight and aching jaw may be relieved by using a muscle relaxer.
Therapeutics
For TMD patients, physical therapy and exercises that focus on stretching and strengthening the jaw muscles are sometimes recommended. Oral splints and mouthguards are two therapeutic devices that can reduce joint stress caused by grinding and clenching. Counseling may also help if the underlying cause of TMD is behavioral, such as trauma or addiction.
Options for Surgical Intervention
More extreme forms of TMD may require surgical intervention. Some examples of TMD surgical procedures are:
- Arthrocentesis is a procedure in which tiny needles are inserted into a joint to drain any excess fluid or debris.
- An arthroscopy can repair joint injury, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that only requires a minor incision.
- Surgery of the mandible (as opposed to the joint itself) is known as a condyloma.
