Do you suffer from frequent headaches or even migraines? Do you regularly experience pain in your neck, shoulders, or back? Does your jaw feel tender when you eat or chew? Did you know that you may be suffering from a jaw joint, or temporomandibular disorder (TMD)? Believe it or not, if your jaw joint is compromised or not functioning properly, it can affect all these areas and greatly diminish your quality of life. Here’s what you should know about treating TMD in Coral Springs.
What is TMJ?
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is one of the most complex joints in the body because it is responsible for all the movements of your jaw, which include open, closed, back and forth. When this joint is not properly aligned or functioning correctly, it can cause a host of symptoms such as:
- Clicking or popping of your jaw
- Your jaw locking in the open or closed position
- Ringing in your ears
- Back, neck, shoulder, or facial pain
- Sensitivity in your teeth or when chewing
- Excessive wear on your teeth
How is TMD Treated?
If you think you might be suffering from TMJ issues, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist about it. While the causes of TMJ problems are unique for each patient, some common ones are:
- Bruxism – or clenching and grinding your teeth at night
- Malocclusions – or bite misalignment
- Excessive wear often caused by bruxism
- Missing teeth
Determining the root cause of your condition will be the best way to decide the right treatment for it. For example, if bruxism is the cause, your dentist may recommend an oral appliance, or nightguard that you would wear while you’re sleeping. This helps to relax your muscles and protect your teeth from the damage caused by bruxism in Coral Springs.
Or perhaps it’s a bite misalignment causing your discomfort? Orthodontic treatment may be able to help align your teeth, correct your bite, and relieve your TMJ pain.
The good news is that you don’t have to live with chronic pain any longer! If you’re ready to learn more about options for relieving your TMJ issues, contact your dentist today to schedule a consultation.
About the Author
Dr. Walter Kulick provides his talents and expertise in caring for patients in Coral Springs. Patients appreciate the fact that our practice offers advanced and comprehensive services that they may not find at other dental practices.
We are also well equipped to help patients suffering from TMJ issues.
If you would like to contact Coral Springs Dentistry, we can be reached by calling 954-341-0500 or through our website.