You may have experienced a toothache before but what happens if you feel discomfort in your jaw? When you’re dealing with jaw pain, it can make everyday activities like speaking and eating a real struggle. There are a variety of culprits that can bring up that uncomfortable sensation, including a severe dental infection or cluster headaches. Another common cause is temporomandibular disorder. We know…it sounds like a mouthful, but we break it down for you in easy-to-digest, bite-size pieces in this blog post.
What Is Temporomandibular Disorder?
Temporomandibular disorder, often shortened to just TMD, is when there’s an issue with the temporomandibular joint, which is often just called the TMJ. Your TMJs are where the lower and upper jaws connect. When everything is going well, that joint works smoothly as you open and close your mouth. When there’s an issue with the joint, it can make a popping sound, cause pain, or even get stuck.
TMD Solutions
Depending on the patient’s case, there are a few different avenues that can be taken in terms of treatment. For some, applying either heat or cold can manage the discomfort. For others, physical therapy is the answer. In terms of dental-specific treatments, we can provide a special mouthguard to reposition the jaw. The best way to figure out what you need to handle your jaw pain is to consult your general physician and your dentist.
TMD Treatment at Ashley Laird, DDS
If you’re currently experiencing pain in your jaw and wondering if it might be TMD, we suggest booking a consultation at our office. At Ashley Laird, DDS, your health is always our top priority, and our experienced team will be there to help you figure out what’s going on and what can be done to fix it. Call or email us today to set up your appointment at our Tyler dental practice!
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