Did you know that sources estimated approximately 10 to 35 million Americans suffer from some form of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder? Also referred to as TMD, this condition can cause stiffness or clicking when opening or closing your mouth, as well as aches that may spread from your teeth and jaw to your face, neck, and shoulders.
Many patients wonder if they can test for TMD at home or whether a professional diagnosis is required for treatment. If you’re eagerly seeking relief for jaw aches, continue reading to learn more about how your condition might be assessed!
What is TMD?
Your jawbone anchors to your skull via two sliding-disc joints that are located just below your ears on each side of your face. When they’re healthy and functioning properly, these temporomandibular joints are responsible for providing your mouth with a full range of motion. Under normal circumstances, you can open and close your jaw, slide it back and forth, or move it from side to side.
But if you have a dental or bite misalignment, suffer from teeth grinding, or frequently clench your jaw, they can become painfully inflamed and sore. Over time, you might develop additional symptoms, such as ringing in the ears, noticeable changes in how your teeth come together when you close your mouth, pain behind the eyes, or limited mouth mobility that, in severe cases, can affect your ability to eat or breathe.
How Can I Test for TMD?
There are many reasons your jaw might feel tender, and not all of them point to a more serious underlying concern with your jawbone or its joints. You’ll need an official diagnosis to pursue treatment, but understanding what signs to look for can help you know when to contact your dentist for an assessment.
For example, you can ‘test’ yourself for this condition at home by placing a finger over your TMJ while slowly opening your jaw. If you feel the joint click under your fingertip or notice aches when applying gentle pressure, you may have a problem.
How Does My Dentist Treat TMJ Issues?
If you suspect you have TMD, it’s time to contact your dentist! They can examine your mouth and take X-rays or other images to determine the root cause of your discomfort and devise an appropriate treatment plan based on their findings.
For example, they can provide a custom-fitted oral appliance, called an occlusal splint, that helps prevent grinding while keeping your jaw in its ideal position, allowing the joints to rest and recover. They can also use equilibration, or occlusal adjustments, to slightly alter the biting surface of your teeth to help them come together correctly, which can reduce strain on your joints when you bite down.
Thankfully, your dentist can help diagnose and treat TMD to reduce aches and improve your daily quality of life!
About the Practice
At Yenzer Family Dental of Chesterfield, you and your loved ones benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping you build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Yenzer and Dr. Monestero share decades of combined experience and collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including TMJ assessments and treatment, under one roof. Their caring and compassionate approach is combined with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatments for long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (636) 778-3019.