Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. It's characterized by pain in the jaw, face, and sometimes the neck and shoulders. The pain arises from an incorrectly aligned bite, which forces the jaw to overcompensate during chewing and other movements.
This condition requires attention and treatment to prevent escalation. A visit to a skilled Coral Gables dentist can offer relief and a path toward correcting the alignment issues at the heart of TMD.
Many individuals unknowingly suffer from TMD, dismissing their discomfort as temporary or minor. However, the following symptoms indicate the jaw is working harder than it should, leading to increased muscle tension and pain:
Ignoring TMD symptoms often leads to a worsening of the condition, with increased pain and potentially severe complications.
When left untreated, TMD can set off a chain reaction of issues, including muscle spasms in various areas such as the jaw, neck, shoulders, and face. Spasms can exacerbate pain and stiffness, making everyday activities challenging and affecting your well-being.
Moreover, TMD may progress to a point where the jaw becomes locked, preventing it from opening fully. This condition, known as lockjaw, hinders your ability to speak, eat, and perform routine tasks.
Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have broadened the treatment possibilities for TMD and reduced the likelihood of needing surgery. Options range from less invasive techniques, such as oral splints and physical therapy, to more advanced treatments for severe cases.
Surgery for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is considered as a last resort when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate symptoms. It involves procedures like arthroscopy to remove damaged tissue or realign the joint, or open joint surgery to repair or replace the joint itself.
If you suspect you have TMD, you need to visit a professional to gain a thorough understanding of the condition. This knowledge empowers you to have informed discussions with your dentists about the available treatment methods.
Coral Gables Dentistry stands at the forefront of offering advanced dental care, including state-of-the-art treatments for TMD. With a focus on patient education and customized care plans, we ensure each patient receives the attention and treatment best suited to their needs.
Our experienced team can provide comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatments to address your TMD concerns. Moreover, if your case requires more complex solutions like surgery, we will refer you to specialists who can better treat your symptoms.
If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD, such as jaw pain, lockjaw, or difficulty chewing, please seek professional help. Ignoring these signs can lead to further complications and discomfort.
Don't let TMJ discomfort disrupt your life. Contact Coral Gables Dentistry today to schedule a consultation with our team and explore your treatment options to take the first step toward relief.
We value your time, so we always run on schedule, respecting your commitments, with no double bookings and minimal wait times. Experience dentistry like never before in our award-winning clinic.