What is TMJ/TMD?
The TMJ is the Temporo-Mandibular Joint, is the joint in front of the ear, where the jawbone is close to the skull on either side of the head, or a disorder of this joint.  Sometimes dentists use the initials TMD to refer to the disorder and distinguish it from the joint itself. 

What causes TMD?
TMD is most often caused by malocclusion, or "bad bite," a misalignment of your jaw that causes stress on the muscles, nerves, and binding tissue. Accidents or trauma (blow to the jaw, whiplash etc) can cause TMD as well.

What are the symptoms of TMD?
TMD has many symptoms that commonly are mistaken for other conditions.  They include soreness of the jaw, sore teeth, and recurrent, migraine-strength headaches.  Sometimes symptoms include frequent tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and pain and tingling in the extremities, especially the arms, hands, and fingers.

How do I know if I have TMD?
The only way to be properly diagnosed is to be examined by a neuromuscular dentist.  If you have some configuration of the above symptoms that your doctor cannot isolate or treat, you should see a neuromuscular dentist to see if you are suffering from TMD.

How do neuromuscular dentists diagnose TMD?
Neuromuscular dentists have advanced equipment to diagnose the disease.  Electromyographic muscle analysis, computerized jaw tracking software, x-rays, and sonographic joint analysis are all used in the diagnosis.

How do neuromuscular dentists treat TMD?
First, their concern is to relieve your pain and symptoms over the short-term.  Then they stabilize your bite to prevent a worsening of the condition.  Finally, they use long-term treatment options to correct the bite more or less permanently.  Common approaches include:

• Coronoplasty — tooth reshaping to make sure all teeth fit properly together
• Mouth guard — a splint or plastic biteplate that helps move your jaw to its proper position
• Reconstruction — crowns are placed on teeth to make them higher and better-fitted to provide structural support for the jaw
• Orthodontics — if your teeth are healthy, braces may be used to move them into position

How long will treatment take?
You should see rapid relief from symptoms, but the course of treatment depends on what needs to be done.  It can range from a few days to a few years.  The sooner you receive treatment, the less that's necessary and therefore the shorter the course. 

If you suspect you may be suffering from TMD, please call or email us today at boldersmiles to set up your initial consultation.