Symptoms such as jaw pain, tension headaches, migraines, joint pain, or ringing in the ear could mean that you have TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. Often, patients are unsure if these symptoms qualify as a dental concern. However, these symptoms could be caused by teeth grinding, clenching your teeth, certain habits, anatomy, and posture.
The dental care team at Baltimore Dental Co. is happy to review your symptoms and determine your TMD treatment needs. Together, we will uncover the fundamental cause of your pain and treat it effectively.
We are conveniently located in Glyndon, MD, serving residents of Baltimore County and neighboring communities.
About TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders (TMD) can be triggered due to a variety of underlying dental concerns. Bruxism, the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth, is a key contributor to TMD. Additionally, if you have misaligned teeth or are missing teeth, you are at a higher risk of developing TMD, as these issues place uneven pressure on the temporomandibular joints. There are many other contributing factors, including:
- External stresses
- Injury or trauma to the jaw or head
- Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
- Habits like nail-biting or chewing hard objects
TMD Symptoms
When visiting our office for a comprehensive examination, the Baltimore Dental Co. team will evaluate your temporomandibular joints for signs and symptoms that may require additional attention. While jaw pain and tension headaches are the most common TMD symptoms, there are additional signs that could point to a temporomandibular joint disorder, including:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you move your jaw.
- Pain, discomfort, or trouble when you open or close your mouth.
- Momentary “locking” of the jaw.
- Pain in the face, ears, or neck.
- Frequent headaches, often resembling tension or migraines.
- Pain or discomfort in or around the ears.
- Changes in the way upper and lower teeth fit together.
- Soreness or tightness in the jaw muscles.
- Discomfort or pain while chewing and/or when waking up.
Symptoms can vary in severity and may be temporary or persistent. It is common for the symptoms to be worse when waking or immediately following a stressful event. If you are experiencing the symptoms of TMD, it is advisable to discuss these concerns with a dentist or healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.
TMJ Disorder Treatment in Glyndon, MD
Your TMJ treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of your disorder. We may recommend a combination of the following treatment options:
- Restorative dentistry to repair and replace damaged teeth.
- Clear Aligner Therapy to reposition a traumatic bite.
- Fabrication of a Nightguard to ensure a healthy jaw position while you sleep.
- Botox injections into muscles related to jaw pain and headaches.
- Myofascial Therapy to create better oral health habits.
Ultimately, your treatment will depend on your personalized treatment plan specific to your needs.
TMJ Disorder and TMJ Treatment FAQs
Whether you’re curious about TMD treatment, seeking information on the side effects of this condition, or wondering when to seek a professional, we are here to guide you. Understanding TMJ disorders is the first step toward managing your oral health.
How can I get relief from a TMJ disorder right away?
You can take actions at home to relieve TMD symptoms. It’s important to find a way to remind yourself to relax your jaw throughout the day. Also, practice good posture and avoid chewing gum or eating very chewy foods, further exacerbating the pain.
A warm compress and gentle massage of the sore spots can also help reduce your discomfort. One of the best ways to experience jaw pain relief is to receive Botox injections in the irritated muscles. Call to schedule an appointment so that we may determine how best to alleviate your symptoms and address the root cause of TMD.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
The usual length of TMD treatment for an adult can range from one to three years. If orthodontic movement is required, the treatment duration will be longer. Therapies like jaw massages, stretching, and stress-reduction activities can bring about some immediate alleviation. However, it will take some time to experience full-time relief.
Can TMJ affect your hearing?
Some people may experience ear pain, tinnitus, and hearing loss due to TMD because the temporomandibular joint connects near your ear.
How can I relax my jaw when I sleep?
The best way to disengage your TMJ is to wear a nightguard appliance that gently propels the joint to prevent the muscle from constricting. Different tongue and jaw exercises may also relax your muscles before sleep.
Can TMJ affect your digestive system?
A recent University of Massachusetts study found that TMD sufferers had almost 100% more digestive issues than people without jaw issues. Chewing is the initial stage of digestion; however, TMD can make it very difficult to chew food properly.
What role does diet play in TMJ treatment?
Diet plays an important role in TMJ treatment by reducing the strain on your jaw. Soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups are easier to chew and help alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Avoiding hard or chewy foods, like nuts and gum, can also prevent unnecessary stress on the jaw.
Schedule Your Appointment For TMJ Treatment in Glyndon, MD Today
If you suspect you’re suffering from a TMJ disorder or have been experiencing any TMJ symptoms, please request an appointment with Dr. Leah Romay at your earliest convenience. We want to see you as soon as possible to minimize any discomfort you may be experiencing.