What is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ and TMD are often used interchangeably to describe disorders of the jaw joint and surrounding musculature. TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint and refers to the anatomic jaw joint. TMD is short for temporomandibular disorder and is the correct term that refers to the pain and disfunction of the joint. TMD is a broad term describing pain or tenderness of the join and associated muscles that control jaw movement.
Signs and symptoms of TMD
- Pain of the jaw joint (TMJ)
- Pain of muscles surrounding the TMJ, head, and neck
- Referred pain to the face, eyes, neck, and teeth
- Headaches and neck aches
- Clicking and popping sounds when opening and closing
- Asymmerical or limited opening of the mouth
- Fractured teeth and restorations
- Worn enamel, possibly with exposure of dentin
- Jaws locks open or locks closed
Causes of TMD
- Clenching or grinding the teeth
- Misalignment in the way the teeth come together and function
- Sleep apnea
- Trauma to the jaw
- Periods of prolonged opening
- Arthritis
- Misalignment of the upper and lower jaws
occlusal bite analysis and adjustment can help provide lasting relief of tmd symptoms
By examining your TMJ (jaw joint) and the way your teeth come together when you bite, Dr. Rachel Monteiro can determine if you may benefit from an occlusal adjustment. To alleviate the symptoms of TMD and prevent further progression of the damage, Dr. Monteiro can adjust or equilibrate your bite. This is done by recontouring the teeth to remove interferences that are preventing the jaw from closing properly, and from the teeth fitting together correctly. The result is that the jaw can go into the correct position and the muscles in the jaw, face, and neck can relax.
Other treatment options for TMD include:
1. Occlusal splints and night guards
2. Botox therapy
3. Physical therapy and massage
4. Orthodontics
5. Orthognathic (jaw) surgery
6. Reconstruction of the teeth to idealize bite relationship