Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are bite disorders that create pain in the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. The temporomandibular joints connect the skull to the jaw bone, acting like a sliding hinge. If these joints are damaged or under stress, patients can experience discomfort eating, jaw pain, and teeth clenching and grinding. While minor TMJ discomfort may disappear without treatment, patients should consider visiting the dentist if they experience increased periods of pain and discomfort. Dr. Peter Diacoloukas offers TMJ treatment in Towson, MD, to help patients manage their symptoms and restore tooth and jaw function. Dr. also provides restorative dentistry treatments to new and existing patients in Towson, Baltimore County.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
Know the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders to get professional care if needed. Common symptoms of TMD can include:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Popping/clicking of the jaw
- Teeth clenching and grinding (Bruxism)
- Pain that feels like a toothache
- Ear pain or earaches
- Headaches, including migraines
- Tight, stiff, or sore jaw or neck muscles
- Facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Locking or dislocation of the jaw
Contributing factors to TMD can include stress, anxiety, poor posture, and jaw trauma. If you notice any of these symptoms, please get in touch with our office for a consultation.
TMJ Treatment in Towson, MD
Patients can treat TMJ disorders at home with ice packs, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and avoiding chewing gum, massage, or gentle stretches. Additionally, patients with TMD also benefit from physical therapy. During physical therapy, patients learn stretches to relieve muscle tension and pain in the back, shoulder, arms, and neck. These stretches can also help improve posture. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods and sticking to a soft diet can also help relieve pressure from the jaw joints and muscles.
Nightguards are customizable treatment options for patients who experience teeth clenching and grinding, headaches, jaw pain, and other common TMD symptoms. We can create custom nightguards that cover the upper or lower teeth. Acrylic TMJ nightguards prevent the teeth from grinding together, preventing tooth wear and headaches that many patients experience due to bruxism.
Prevent TMJ Pain
Restore the comfort and function of your TMJ with professional care. Call Dr. Diacoloukas for treatment at 443-282-3641 or request a dental appointment online.