Curious about TMD? If so, you are not the only one. There are thousands of people who suffer from TMD yet don’t understand what this condition can be. Luckily, our team here at Nicholas P. Kondon, DMD in Concord, Massachusetts, is happy to give you some basic information on TMD and how to treat it.
Here is some basic information on TMJ disorder: Temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are the two joints on the side of your face that open and close your mouth. When these joints begin to hurt, simple tasks of talking, chewing, and even swallowing can be extremely difficult. Your TMJ also works with other muscles and ligaments to keep the motion of your mouth fluid. When these joints become damaged or possibly strained, intense pain in your joints or severe headaches can occur.
There are different possible causes of TMD, better known as TMJ disorders. Some of these include:
-Injury to your jaw or joint pain
-Arthritis
-Bad tooth or jaw alignment
-Severe stress and teeth grinding putting pressure on the joints in your jaw
-Dislocation of your jaw
Whatever is causing your TMJ discomfort, the important thing is to get properly diagnosed, so you can begin treatment. There are also other treatments you can do alone to help your TMD. These include:
– Avoid chewing gum.
– Use heat packs to treat the pain.
– Exercise to strengthen your jaw muscles.
– Avoid nail biting.
– Eat softer foods.
TMD could become serious if left untreated, which is why if you still have questions about TMD, or would like to learn more about your treatment options, please call 978.369.9090 to set up an appointment with Dr. Nicholas Kondon. Our team stands ready to assist your grin in any way we can.