Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: Seven Ways to Manage TMD

An injured or otherwise misaligned temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can result in a serious and painful disorder, known as TMD. At Heritage Dental, we are committed to providing our patients with TMD treatments to help alleviate pain and manage discomfort.

TMD is a disorder that has to do with conditions that affect the TMJ. Typically, TMD results from either an injury or misalignment of the TMJ joints, nerves, and muscles.

There are many different causes for TMD, including:

• Persistent grinding or clenching of the teeth while sleeping
• Arthritis or injury to the jaw that causes misalignment
• Periods of stress or anxiety that cause tense facial muscles.

Popping of the jaw is one of the major symptoms used to help identify TMD in patients. When the jaw and TMJ become misaligned, they can pop and click in and out of place fairly easily. This can occur simply from opening the mouth too wide!

Other symptoms of TMD can include:

• A misaligned bite
• Pain or soreness in the jaw
• Pain or soreness in muscles connected to the jaw, such as in the neck and back
• Head- and earaches.

TMD treatment plans will depend on the severity of the disorder in each patient. Treatment can range from at-home solutions including a nightguard to requiring surgery.

At Heritage Dental, we can help you to combat TMD by providing services to realign your bite and jaw, as well as replacing missing or damaged teeth. During consultation, our dental team will provide thorough assessment of your needs to determine which treatment route is best for you.

Heritage Dental services families in Carleton Place and the surrounding communities of Smiths Falls, Perth, and Almonte. For more information on TMD treatment, contact us today to request an appointment!