TMJ Dentistry |2 min read

Ask Your Orinda Dentist: What are TMJ and TMD?

Orinda DentistAsk Your Orinda Dentist: What are TMJ and TMD?

The temporomandibular joint, commonly referred to as TMJ, is the joint where your jaw connects with the temporal bones of your skull. Discomfort and problems associated with your jaw and the muscles that control it is referred to as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)

There is no known cause of TMD, but there are multiple factors that can lead to it:

  • A past injury
  • Nighttime grinding of the  teeth
  • A misaligned bite

Symptoms of TMD:

  •  Pain in your jaw, neck, shoulders, ears, and/or face
  •  Migraines and headaches
  •  Pain when you chew or open your mouth wide
  •  Clicking, grating, or popping in your jaw joint

 

What to expect during a Orinda Dentist TMJ consultation:

If you’re suffering from any of the painful symptoms listed above, a consultation with Dr. Santucci can help you identify the causes of your discomfort and what solutions may be right for you (learn more about our virtual consultations).

During your consultation, he will examine your jaw, bite, teeth, and facial muscles.

Non-invasive TMD treatments can relieve your pain!

There are several non-invasive treatments Dr. Santucci may recommend to help, including application of an ice pack to the area, simple jaw stretches, and eating soft foods.

Additionally, an Orthotic may be recommended in more severe cases to correct the jaw problems.

Finally, dental or orthodontic treatments, such as crowns or braces, may be necessary to permanently correct or balance your bite.

You don’t have to suffer permanently from jaw, neck, and facial pain caused by TMD! The team here at Jess Santucci, DDS is skilled in helping Orinda and East Bay TMD sufferers find relief. Call us at (925) 254-4633 to book your complimentary TMD consultation today with our Orinda dentist. We look forward to seeing you soon. Also, please look at the rest of our blog. There are helpful tips on a variety of subjects.

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