Boulder General Dentistry

TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder, occurs when there are problems with the jaw, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or the surrounding muscles of the face. These muscles help control chewing and movement of the jaw, as well as some of the facial expressions. Some injuries, such as whiplash or a blow to the jaw, can cause TMD. Other causes include:

• Clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism)
• Dislocation of the soft cushion between the ball and socket of the jaw
• Stress, which can cause tightening of facial and jaw muscles, or clenching of the teeth
• Presence of arthritis

Severe pain and discomfort often accompanies TMD, and is most commonly seen in people between 20 and 40 years old. More women than men suffer from TMD.

Common Symptoms

• Pain in face, neck, shoulders, or area of the jaw
• Jaw that locks in open or closed position
• Swelling on the side of the face
• Clicking or popping in the jaw, which may or may not be painful
• Difficulty chewing
• Toothaches
• Headaches, including migraines
• Tinnitus
• Dizziness

Being diagnosed with TMD is done by a dentist who has experience in neuromuscular dentistry. After finding that you have TMD, finding the root of the cause, as well as treatment of the symptoms can begin. Treatment might include wearing a mouth guard to help adjust your bite, dental treatment which might include crowns to replace missing teeth, or a change in your diet to avoid hard and sticky foods.

If you think you might have TMD or want to know more about it, please contact Dr. Birnbach, serving Boulder and the area from Fort Collins to Denver, Colorado.