Understanding TMD

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is responsible for facilitating almost all dental function, ranging from chewing and biting to speaking and even breathing. When this joint is damaged or fails to work properly, patients may begin to experience a variety of side effects and discomfort that can compromise their oral function.

Known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD, this condition refers to the many different conditions that result from joint malfunction or damage. Understanding how these conditions are caused and what they entail is the first step to seeking effective care and regaining complete oral function.

How Does the TMJ Work?
Also known as the jaw joint, the TMJ is the point at which the mandible (lower jaw) connects to the skull. Here, muscles facilitate smooth jaw movement by guiding the rounded upper ends of the mandible, known as condyles, along the coordinating jaw socket on the skull. Between the condyles and the socket lie small discs of tissue which help to absorb the shock of movement. Over time however, these discs can wear down or become displaced, causing discomfort in the jaw as well as surrounding tissue, a condition known as TMD.

What is TMD?
TMD is not one particular condition cause by one particular joint problem. The term actually refers to a number of different disorders caused by joint dysfunction which can affect the muscles, all areas of the mouth, joints and other surrounding parts of the body. As a result, there a number of different symptoms caused by joint dysfunction, making accurate and prompt diagnosis difficult. However, understanding what common symptoms of TMD look like can help patients find effective solutions for their condition and alleviate the discomfort caused by TMD. Some of these symptoms include:

- Pain in the jaw muscles, neck, and shoulders
- Chronic headaches or dizziness
- Painful clicking, popping, and grating of the jaw
- Jaw stiffness or limited jaw movement
- Ear pressure, ringing, fullness, or pain
- Vision problems

In addition to affecting the jaw muscles and other parts of the head, TMD can also affect the dentition. Often, patients with TMD have an increased tendency to grind their teeth, leading to weaker teeth, bite misalignment, and sore muscles when chewing or biting.

At Westside Family Dentistry, our dental team is highly experienced in helping patients develop long-term solutions to alleviate the discomfort caused by TMD. Our in-depth evaluation ensures that your TMD treatment addresses all parts of your smile and comprehensively relieves the discomfort. To learn more about your TMD treatment options in Durant, contact Dr. Beaver and the Westside Family Dentistry team today.