Many people experience random jaw pain at some point, and pay little attention to it. Usually it is not cause for concern. However, chronic, agonizing jaw pain can be indicative of a common joint disorder known as TMD, or Temporomandibular joint disorder. TMD affects your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that control all of your jaw movement, and the treatments are just as varied as its symptoms.
Take The Quiz!
1. Where are your Temporomandibular Joints located?
- At the base of your neck
- Top of your jaw where it connects to your skull (near temples)
- In your elbow
- In your hands
2. What are symptoms of TMD?
- Headaches/migraines
- Popping jaw sounds
- Inability to fully open mouth
- All of the Above
3. What treatments are used for TMD?
- Cold Laser therapy
- Use of a cushioned mouth guard while sleeping
- Physical therapy
- All of the Above
4. If you experience chronic jaw pain you should:
- Avoid using excessive jaw movements when possible
- Make an appointment with your dentist for a TMJ/TMD evaluation
- Apply warm and cold compresses to help with the pain
- All of the above
Answers:
- Your TMJs are located on the sides of your face, near your temples, and in front of your ears. This is the point where your lower jaw connects to your skull with ligaments and muscles.
- TMD has many symptoms including, but not limited to: difficulty opening your mouth, headaches, soreness of the face and ears, and popping or grinding sounds from the joints.
- Treatments for TMD and jaw pain are numerous and generally prescribed according to the type of discomfort you experience.
- If you think you may be suffering from TMD, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, avoid using excessive jaw movements when yawning or eating, and consider applying warm or cold compresses to the affected side(s).
ABOUT YOUR FUQUAY VARINA DENTIST:
For over 15 years, Dr. Michelle Collier and the talented professionals at Waterstone Family Dentistry have provided comfortable, compassionate dental care to patients of all ages from Fuquay Varina, NC, as well as Holly Springs, Angier, Willow Springs, Raleigh, and all surrounding communities. If you’d like to learn more, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Collier by calling (919) 557-5250 today.
