If your jaw clicks, locks, or feels sore when you chew or speak, you might have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This condition can affect your daily life by making simple actions uncomfortable or difficult. At Legaspi Family Dental in Alhambra, CA, our trusted providers specialize in personalized TMD treatment to help restore your comfort. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.
What Is The TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your jawbone to your skull and controls the movements of your mouth. This joint allows you to open and close your mouth smoothly and is essential for chewing, speaking, and yawning. You have one TMJ on each side of your face.
- Essential for jaw function: Enables smooth opening, closing, and side-to-side movements for chewing and speaking.
- Works with facial muscles: Supports the complex motions needed for facial expressions and everyday jaw use.
- Located on both sides: One joint connects each side of the jaw to the skull for balanced movement.
What Is TMD?
TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, which means there is a problem with the joint or muscles around it. This condition can cause discomfort that comes and goes or becomes a persistent issue that impacts your life. Many people don’t realize they have TMD until the symptoms start interfering with their routine.
- Affects joint or muscles: Causes may include tightness, inflammation, or misalignment affecting jaw movement.
- Temporary or chronic: Some cases resolve quickly, while others need ongoing management to control symptoms.
- Often unnoticed: Early symptoms can be subtle or confused with headaches or ear problems.
Signs & Symptoms Of TMD
TMD symptoms vary widely from person to person and can sometimes be confused with other problems. Jaw clicking, headaches, and facial soreness are common signs that your TMJ might need attention. Early diagnosis can help prevent symptoms from worsening.
- Jaw clicking or popping: Noticeable sounds or sensations when opening or closing your mouth.
- Limited jaw movement: Difficulty opening wide or feeling like your jaw locks in place temporarily.
- Headaches or earaches: Discomfort that can feel like pressure or soreness near your ears and temples.
- Facial muscle soreness: Persistent tension or aching in muscles around your cheeks and jawline.
Causes & Risk Factors Associated With TMD
There are multiple causes of TMD, which often overlap. Stress, injury, and dental issues can all contribute to this condition. Understanding these causes helps guide effective treatment.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: Often related to stress or disrupted sleep patterns, causing muscle strain and joint stress.
- Jaw misalignment: An uneven bite can place extra pressure on the TMJ and surrounding muscles during daily use.
- Trauma to the jaw: Injuries from accidents or sports can damage the joint or nearby tissues.
- Joint problems: Conditions like arthritis can cause inflammation and degeneration, affecting jaw movement.
Treatment For TMD
Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort and restoring normal jaw function with approaches tailored to your needs. Our team performs a thorough evaluation before recommending the best options for your situation. We aim to improve your quality of life and prevent further complications.
- Custom nightguards: Designed to protect your teeth and ease pressure on the jaw during sleep.
- Lifestyle tips: Techniques such as stress management and posture adjustments help reduce muscle tension.
- Dental care: Procedures that rebalance your bite or repair damaged teeth to support joint health.
- Specialist referrals: Coordinated care with medical experts if more advanced joint treatment is needed.
Experience A New Level Of Jaw Comfort
Living with jaw discomfort is frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Legaspi Family Dental in Alhambra, CA, offers expert care designed to relieve your symptoms and improve daily function. Our providers work closely with you to find the best treatment plan for your lifestyle. Call us today to schedule your consultation and start feeling comfortable again.
