TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint. This is the joint on either side of the face that connects the bottom jaw to the skull. The temporomandibular joints give the lower jaw the mobility to move up and down and side to side.
TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (Dysfunction). TMD is when the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are damaged, malfunctioning, or injured.
Signs of TMJ Dysfunction
There are certain signs you can look for to see if your temporomandibular joints are damaged. Some of the most common signs and symptoms are:
- Clicking & Popping Sounds When Opening Jaw
- Frequent, Chronic Headaches
- Lock Jaw
- Pain Behind Eyes or in Shoulders, Face, Neck & Upper Back
- Ringing in Ears
- Tight & Sore Jaw
TMD Treatment at the Dentist
For patients struggling with TMD, dentists can design a custom oral appliance for patients to help minimize and alleviate symptoms while the joints heal. The custom appliances look similar to a retainer and reposition the jawbone to provide pain relief and comfort. For more severe cases of TMD, oral surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged TMJs. Each patient and case of TMD is unique, so treatment may vary based on each patient’s unique needs.
Schedule Your TMD Consultation!
Are you feeling any of the symptoms listed above? You may suffer from TMD! At Hermitage Dental Group in Hermitage, TN, we proudly offer treatments to help patients gain relief from jaw pain and injury caused by TMD. At your consultation, we’ll be able to examine your jaw, discuss the symptoms you’re experiencing, and determine which treatment is right for you.