Temporomandibular Disorders
TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, includes pain and dysfunction in the TMJ or temporomandibular joint, and associated muscles, ligaments and nerves. Symptoms of TMD include:
-Pain in the jaw joints
-Difficulty opening and closing the jaw.
-Clicking and popping in the jaw.
-“Locking” of the jaw, open or closed.
-Difficulty chewing and bite changes.
-Pain in the muscles used to chew.
Causes of TMD can include:
-Trauma to the head, neck and jaw
-Whiplash injuries
-Clenching and Grinding
-Arthritis
-Damage to the ligaments and cartilage in the jaw joints
In some cases, the TMJ, the muscles used for chewing, and the tendons and ligaments associated with the TMJ can refer pain to teeth, the head and cause headaches.
Temporomandibular Disorders Treatment Options
We focus on medically sound treatment options that avoid surgery and opioid medications. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and damage to the tissues, treatment can involve more than one type of treatment at a time. Options can include:
-Oral appliances used to help improve joint function and reduce clenching and -grinding .
-Medications to help reduce pain and inflammation, and relax muscles
-Therapeutic, “non-cutting” lasers can be used to help reduce inflammation and promote healing
-Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care
At Virginia TMJ, we begin with a thorough head and neck exam using state of the art diagnostic equipment and techniques. Our exams include:
-A review of medical and dental history
-Intraoral examination
-TMJ evaluation
-Cranial nerve evaluation
-Head, neck and muscle palpations
With the correct diagnosis, we design the treatment for the patient’s specific needs and severity of the disorder. We will communicate with the patient’s dentist and physicians to coordinate care and assure the best outcomes. We follow up treatment with maintenance care to assure continued improvement.
Our Goal
There is no one treatment or one type of appliance, that fits every person. We adapt treatment to the needs of the patient and the severity of the disorder. Let us help you be yourself again.