Are You Suffering From TMD?
Do you find yourself experiencing frequent discomfort in your jaw and face when you open your mouth or chew? Or do you find that you are waking frequently with unexplained headaches? If either of these scenarios is something you regularly experience, you may be suffering from a common condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, also called TMD. You may also be familiar with the term TMJ, which stands for the temporomandibular joint. TMD is a chronic degenerative condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, which are the joints located on either side of the head that connect the jaw to the skull. The effects of TMD can significantly affect your quality of life.
Symptoms and Signs of TMD
Unfortunately, TMD remains undiagnosed in many patients. Many symptoms are similar to those you may find in other ailments so patients often visit another physician for a diagnosis and don’t realize they are suffering from TMD. TMD symptoms can include:
- Headaches, neck, or shoulder pain
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Jaw discomfort or pain
- Locked jaw
- Teeth grinding
- Discomfort or ringing of the ears
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
The Importance of Treating TMD
During a visit to our office, Dr. Gray will inspect your teeth and mouth for signs of wear. He will also take pictures and X-rays to further inspect the area. After a diagnosis, he will recommend a treatment plan based on your needs. Some patients will need braces or an orthodontic appliance, others will need an oral appliance followed by a dental crown treatment. No matter which treatment method is recommended, we suggest treating the issue as soon as possible. Leaving TMD untreated can greatly impact your quality of life affecting how you eat, speak, and your comfort level on a daily basis.
If you or a loved one are suffering from one or more of the symptoms above and are located in the Newmarket, ON area, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We want to help solve and treat your oral health concerns.
