TMJ/TMD
Statesville, NC
 At Jon C. Packman DDS, we are experts in dealing with cases of TMJ/TMD. We understand that TMJ pain is one of the worst pains to have and we are dedicated to helping you overcome the condition as much as possible.
What is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ is the abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint which connects your lower jawbone to the base of your skull. Since it’s highly used it, it can be extremely painful and have a strong impact on normal activities when it gets inflamed.
Any problems with the TMJ are referred to as TMD or temporomandibular disorder, but they’re usually simply called TMJ. It tends to affect women at some point between twenty and forty years old. It might only last a few weeks or months before it resolves on its own. In some cases, however, might last indefinitely.
TMD Symptoms
TMD can affect people in different ways. Many patients will undergo numerous check-ups before finally coming to the correct diagnosis. These symptoms include pain around the jaw, ears, cheeks and neck, as well as headaches, migraines, and earache. Chewing can also be painful. Additionally, your jaw might be stiff, be unable to open completely, or it might get locked.
You might notice a change in your facial expression or a difference in how your upper and lower teeth fit together. In many cases of TMJ/TMD, you might not be able to make one side of your bite meet the other.
If you’ve concluded that your symptoms are caused by TMD, you should contact our office and make an appointment so we can provide you with a correct diagnosis. We can then begin to focus on providing you with effective treatment for the condition.
To get a diagnostic, we will ask a couple of questions regarding your symptoms and the areas where you feel pain. We will also physically inspect the joint while you move your jaw. Finally, we’ll inspect your bite to check how your teeth fit with each other.
TMJ/TMD Causes
There isn’t one particular cause for TMD and anything that causes tension in your jaw, and the temporal muscles can create problems with the TMJ. However, there tend to be many factors that combine and end up causing disorder and pain. Stress can end up contributing to a condition that already existed.
The most frequent cause is an injury to the neck or jaw, caused by hits to the face or whiplash. Other causes include grinding or clenching of the teeth (bruxism), improper bite alignment, and poor previous dentistry work that changes how your teeth come together. Other causes include arthritis, and dislocation of the joint.
It can also be caused by breathing altered by sleep disorders when your airway collapses during your sleep and blocks your breathing. This can cause the lower jaw to either thrust forward or clamp down to open the airways.
To get more information on TMJ/TMD and get a diagnosis, feel free to call the experienced professionals here at Jon C. Packman DDS at (704) 978-7060 today!
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