TMJ/TMD Overview
Dentist Livermore
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, commonly known as TMD (temporomandibular disorders), affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to pain and dysfunction. Symptoms can include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds during chewing, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, and headaches. At Define Dentistry, we offer a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment options for TMJ/TMD, including custom oral appliances, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle recommendations to relieve symptoms and improve jaw function. If you’re experiencing TMJ/TMD symptoms, contact us to schedule a consultation and explore effective treatment solutions suited to your needs.
Relieving Pain and Restoring Comfort
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, connecting the jawbone to the skull on both sides. Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) refers to problems affecting this joint and the surrounding muscles and soft tissues. Typical TMD symptoms include:
Causes of TMD
The most common cause of TMD is subconscious clenching or grinding of the teeth, typically occurring during sleep or periods of high stress. Other potential causes include:
- Displacement of the jaw joint disc
- Osteoarthritis damage to the joint
- Swelling inside the joint
- Muscle strain from poor posture
- Joint inflammation or strain
DID YOU KNOW…
The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body, capable of both hinge and sliding motions.