What Is TMD Disorder?

Temporomandibular Disorder, also known as TMD, refers to issues with the jaw and the facial muscles that control your jaw that you use when chewing, biting, and speaking. This includes your facial nerves and TM joints.

What are the symptoms of TMD?

People with TMD may experience a variety of symptoms including:

• Pain in or around the ear
• Neck aches
• Headaches
• Tenderness of the jaw or jaw muscles
• Soreness in the jaw
• Jaw pain associated with chewing, biting, or yawning
• Difficulty closing/opening the mouth
• Clicking noises when opening the mouth
• Sensitive teeth

What Causes TMD?

While there is not one specific cause of TMD, TMD symptoms are associated with issues in the jaw including the TM joint and muscles of the jaw. More specifically, injuries such as whiplash that affect your jaw, head, or neck can lead to TMD issues. In addition, an improper bite, arthritis, and grinding your teeth can lead to TMD symptoms. It is even shown that stress can lead to TMD issues when it presents itself in tightening your facial muscles, or clenching your teeth.

How is TMD Treated?

First, your dentist will conduct a physical exam, and learn more about your health history to see what may be causing your symptoms. X-rays may also be used to see if there are any other problems present in your jaw that may be causing your symptoms.

After the problem is diagnosed, your dentist may recommend a variety of TMD treatments to ease your discomfort including:

• Medications to help ease your pain
• Dental work to correct teeth alignment
• Splint therapy to give your jaw joints balance and rest

How Smile Creations Can Help

If you think you may have TMD Disorder, visit the experienced Austin dentists at Smile Creations. Dr. Heck has extensive training in the treatment of TMD, and commonly uses Bite Splints to give the jaw joints balance and rest. Contact us today to learn more about our TMD treatment in Austin.