TMD Temporomandibular Disorders/TMJ Temporomandibular Joints
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is an acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The temporomandibular (TMJ) joint connects the lower jaw to the skull. This joint is located in two places, in front of each ear. The temporomandibular (TMJ) joint allows movement up and down, side to side, and forward to back, and is therefore necessary for biting, chewing and swallowing, speaking, and making facial expressions.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a collection of conditions that are characterized by pain and discomfort in the jaw and surrounding tissues. It is estimated that over 10 million people in the United States suffer from TMJ problems at any given time. Both men and women can be afflicted, but the majority of those who seek treatment are women in their childbearing years.
If you regularly experience jaw pain, limited movement, or discomfort, it is in your best interest to speak with your dentist about TMD/TMJ. You deserve to live a painless life. Basic activities like chewing and smiling should not be uncomfortable, and they don't need to be. You need not suffer any longer. Begin a dialogue with your doctor today.
TMD/TMJ Treatment
For some patients jaw pain is only temporary, lasting just weeks or months. In these situations, dentists may only provide simple care to relieve discomfort. These simple practices include staying away from hard foods, applying ice or moist heat, and avoiding extreme jaw movements. However, individuals who suffer from TMD/TMJ sometimes require more extensive treatment to realign the jaw.
To treat TMD/TMJ through surgery, dentists must first measure the most relaxed position of the jaw to determine the ideal for normal positioning. The dentist then works to realign the bite and reach an optimal position for teeth and joints. Once this is accomplished, the pain that resulted from jaw misalignment will vanish.
If you suffer from TMD/TMJ, the right dental care can help you overcome the pain and inconveniences you've experienced. Don't let your discomfort from the past harm your opportunities in the future. Talk to your dentist about TMD/TMJ treatment options today.
TMD/TMJ Diseases and Disorders
Temporomandibular joint diseases and disorders (TMD/TMJ) are a set of conditions that cause pain in the jaw joint and associated muscles. There are three general categories that TMD/TMJ diseases and disorders fall into: Myofascial pain, internal derangement of the joint and inflammatory joint disease.
Myofascial pain is characterized by discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function, but can also extend to the muscles in the neck and shoulders. Internal derangement of the joint involves the displacement of the disc that acts as a cushion between the skull and lower jaw. Finally, inflammatory joint disease describes the conditions of arthritis and synovitis. Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects a joint, while synovitis is an inflammatory condition of the synovial membrane which serves the purpose of lining and lubricating the joint.
TMD/TMJ diseases and disorders are complicated and can have far-reaching effects. These afflictions can harm the muscles and joints in the head, neck, and shoulder areas. If you are concerned that you may be suffering from a TMD/TMJ disease or disorder, contact your dentist immediately. Obtaining professional treatment can help you live a pain-free life.
TMD/TMJ Symptoms
IThe most common symptom of TMD/TMJ is pain. Patients typically describe this discomfort as a dull aching pain in the jaw joint and nearby areas including the ear. However, some people report no pain at all but instead have problems using their jaws.
Other TMD/TMJ symptoms can include being unable to open the mouth comfortably, clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint, locking of the jaw when attempting to open the mouth, frequent headaches, an uncomfortable bite, neck, shoulder and back pain, swelling on the side of the face, ringing in the ears, decreased hearing, dizziness, and vision problems.
If you suffer from any of these symptoms with severe and long-lasting pain, it is time to see your dentist. TMD/TMJ is a disorder that can be treated and is not uncommon. Don't let any obstacle prevent you from living a happier more comfortable life.
TMD/TMJ Diagnosis
It is not uncommon for doctors to have a difficult time diagnosing TMD/TMJ. Many of the symptoms of TMD/TMJ are not limited to this disorder and are characteristic of other health problems. Therefore, a diagnosis of TMD/TMJ can only be made after other possibilities have been considered and ruled out.
Many people who suffer from TMD/TMJ visit several healthcare providers to receive second and sometimes third opinions from professionals before undergoing any treatment. This is due to the frequent misdiagnosis of this disorder and poses a challenge to some potential patients. However, it is important to make an effort to get several medical opinions. For some people suffering from TMD/TMJ symptoms may worsen over time and develop into long-term persistent and debilitating pain.
If you believe you may be afflicted with TMD/TMJ disorder, it is imperative to see good doctors and receive an accurate diagnosis. This can prevent further confusion in the future and help bring an end to the discomfort and pain you have experienced in the past. The sooner you see your dentist, the sooner you can live comfortably again.
Sleep Apnea & Snoring
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing is interrupted during one's sleep. It is caused by the relaxation of muscles in the airway during sleep, which impedes or completely obstructs breathing. This results in inconveniences like excessive snoring but can also lead to more serious complications. Sleep apnea is the most common category of sleep-disordered breathing, affecting 2% of all females and 4% of all males.
Sleep apnea can have many negative impacts on one's health. People who suffer from sleep apnea often report daytime sleepiness, a poor immune system, poor mental and emotional health, decreased productivity, irritability, low energy, lack of concentration, and slower reaction time. Because sleep apnea decreases the amount of oxygen going to the brain, the disorder can lead to more serious health problems such as insomnia, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, abnormal heart rhythm, sexual dysfunction, morning headaches, depression, and a sevenfold increase in auto accident involvement.
Fortunately, dental surgeons can treat sleep apnea and other sleep disorders with very high success rates. If you believe you may suffer from sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, do not hesitate to discuss this with your doctor. Without proper medical intervention, you may be at serious risk for additional health problems. Everyone deserves a good night's sleep. You need not suffer any longer.