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TMD

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a blanket term used to describe a range of symptoms that result from improperly functioning temporomandibular joints. These joints are located right in front of the ears where the lower jaw connects to the skull. These are among the most complex joints in the entire body. As a result, when these joints are not functioning properly, many problems are likely to follow.

 

Symptoms of TMD

 

TMD is a chronic condition that can go on for many years before symptoms become obvious or are too painful to ignore. Here are a few of the more common signs that you may have TMD:

• Clicking or popping sounds when the jaw opens or closes
• Headaches, migraines, and other pain or tension in the muscles of the shoulder, neck, jaw, and face
• Stiff, limited jaw movement
• Ear pain
• Facial pain
• Locking jaw
• Uncomfortable or uneven bite

 

Causes of TMD

 

The most common cause of TMD is malocclusion – the medical term for having a misaligned bite. This misalignment causes your temporomandibular joints, along with every muscle, nerve, and tendon connected to them, to compensate for the misalignment. This compensation over-stresses these joints, eventually leading to the symptoms listed above. The latest research indicates that TMD can significantly impact your neurochemistry, which can lead to depression and other psychological disorders.

 

Treatment for TMD

 

TMD is treated using the principles of neuromuscular dentistry. Like any disorder, it is best if TMD is caught early. Unfortunately, most TMD patients wait until the symptoms become quite advanced. Treatment methods vary with the individual and the severity of the disorder, but may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Muscle relaxants
• Corticosteroid drugs
• Bite guards
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Corrective dental treatment
• Surgery (only in severe cases)

 

If you live in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area and suffer from TMD-related symptoms, please contact Pennsylvania neuromuscular dentist Dr. Babak Firouzi at the Center for Aesthetic Dentistry today to arrange your complimentary consultation.