TMJ/TMD therapy in Altamonte Springs, FL

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, and TMD is short for temporomandibular disorder. These terms are often used interchangeably, although they’re slightly different.

The temporomandibular joint connects the skull to the lower jaw or mandible. This joint is one of the most complex in the body and allows the jaw to move up and down and side to side. It also enables the mouth to open wide and to open and close. TMJ disorder refers to a group of conditions that affect this joint. These conditions can be caused by injury, stress, or other factors.

Jaw joint disorder, also known as TMD, can cause several symptoms that affect the patient’s quality of life. Patients who suffer from TMD symptoms should talk to their dentist about TMJ therapy. The dentist may recommend one or more of several treatment options to relieve their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

What Causes TMJ/TMD?

The most common causes of TMJ/TMD include:

• Severe stress applied to the TMJ due to repeated and continuous movement of the lower jaw
• Chewing on pen caps, rubber bands, etc.
• Persistently chewing a lot of gum
• Snacking too often
• Inappropriate sleeping positions that put excessive pressure on the TMJ and lower jaw
• Injuries to the TMJ

What Is TMJ/TMD Therapy?

TMJ disorders can cause debilitating pain and make it difficult for you to chew, talk, or yawn. To treat these disorders, our Dentist Altamonte Springs, FL may recommend TMJ/TMD therapy using:

• Splints, mouth guards, and bite plates: These are custom-fabricated oral appliances that are used to reduce the stress applied to the TMJ and relax the tissues around the joint.
• Stress management: These techniques are used to reduce the stress applied to the TMJ, thus preventing TMD.
• Relaxation techniques: These are suggestions provided by the dentist that help relax the TMJ and the muscles around it.
• Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes, such as changing the sleeping posture, avoiding holding the phone between the cheek and shoulder, etc., can help treat TMD.
• Medication: The dentist may also recommend medications to relieve the pain in the muscles of the face surrounding the TMJ.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at Distinctive Dental on Maitland, call (407) 830-9800 or schedule your consultation online. You can also visit us at 609 Maitland Ave STE 1, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.