TMD Treatment

Temporomandibular disorder is a condition affecting two crucial joints on our face, known as temporomandibular joints. These joints are found on each side of our skull and their purpose is to connect the jaw and allow its movement. The joint itself is held together with ligaments that all originate from different areas of the head and neck. When the ligaments work together properly, they support the jaw and enable it to move up and down in a hinge-type motion, and back, forwards and down. These movements make it possible to obtain maximum use from our jaw – for eating, drinking, talking, and more. Temporomandibular disorder is the result of problems that affect the joints, preventing it from being used properly.

In addition to providing smile makeovers to residents of Long Beach and the surrounding areas, we also provide the following general dentistry services in Long Beach: Dental Cleanings and X-Rays, Cavities, Wisdom Teeth / Oral Surgery, Endodontic Surgery, Mouthguards, Nightguards, Emergency Dental Care, Sedation Dentistry, Sealants, and Fluoride Treatment.

Causes of TMD

TMD can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of the condition include:

Bruxism – This is a condition that occurs when a patient unconsciously or subconsciously grinds their teeth.

Uneven bite – The teeth do not fit properly when the patient closes the mouth/jaw.

Osteoarthritis – This condition is characterized by the inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the body, including the temporomandibular joint.

Stress – Stress is normal, but most people only have short episodes. However, the constant tension puts pressure on the muscles and joints. Many people keep their jaw tight and are unaware of it.

Injury – The temporomandibular joint may be affected by a traumatic injury to the head, face, or neck.

Signs and Symptoms of TMD

How do I know if I have TMJ? There are several symptoms that could indicate a TMJ problem. Schedule an appointment if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Facial jaw pain
Facial headaches
Earaches and tinnitus
Stiffness in your jaw
Clicking, popping and grinding noises when you move your jaw
Swelling in the sides of the face under the ear

Treatment for TMD

After confirming your TMJ diagnosis, our dental team will discuss the various treatment options. There are many treatments available to help relieve symptoms, and we can help you find the one that works best for you.

Initial treatments for TMD typically include:

Using heat/cold applications to reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications.
Prescription medications that relax the muscles and therefore ease tension in the joints.
Physical therapy exercises.

However, if these therapies prove ineffective, we may recommend you consider more intensive treatment. This may include using conventional metal braces to change the position of your jaw and improve your bite, clear aligner alternatives that work similarly but provide greater convenience and comfort, or even surgery to restructure your bite. Once you schedule your dentist appointment will be able to explain these different treatment options to you in greater depth, ensuring that you understand what you can expect from them.