Some of us may prefer a firm mattress over a soft one, one pillow or a dozen pillows, a thin blanket or a nice heavy one. Why? Because when it comes to sleep, comfort is key. Comfort is one thing you don’t get if you suffer from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).
But not to worry! You can now rest easy because New Teeth Dental Solutions has a variety of treatment options to resolve your TMJ/TMD issues, allowing you to get the pain-free, restorative sleep you deserve.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull—or the “hinges of your jawbone. Though we often don’t think about it, the temporomandibular joints are among the hardest working joints in your entire body. They make it possible for you to speak, chew, yawn, and even laugh!
When you have a problem with these joints, it is called TMJ disorder, TMJ dysfunction, or simply TMD. This condition is associated with chronic pain that often stems from stress or malalignment in your TMJ.
The exact cause of TMD varies from person to person. It can be due to genetics, arthritis, or an injury to the face. TMD also has a strong connection with Bruxism (teeth grinding), which affects both the jawbone and the throat muscles linked to sleep apnea. Though the pain may originate in your jaw joints, it can also spread further through your body, so it can be hard to diagnose accurately.
Needless to say, between the dental discomforts caused by TMJ problems and the undue stress it causes on the muscles of your mouth which can create or increase sleep apnea symptoms, your rest, and your health, is at risk!
How Do I Know If I Have TMD?
While having any persistent pain is a sign of seeking medical attention, there are other indicators that you may have TMD. At New Teeth Dental Solutions, we are always happy to keep you informed and up to date on how your oral care affects your total health and wellness. If you have any of the following symptoms, be encouraged to contact our office for a consultation.
- Audible clicking: Many patients who suffer from TMD have mentioned their partners or family members can hear their jaw making a clicking or popping noise.
- Persistent pain in the joints or jaw: Persistent pain in the jaw that lasts through the day and night, or sharp pain when chewing.
- Aching facial pain: The TMJ is high up, around the ear. This can make it feel like you have an earache or facial nerve pain.
- Locking of the joints: This can happen when you try to speak or chew. Suddenly, your jaw might lock, making it difficult to open your mouth.
TMD Treatment
Our practice has a broad range of treatment options for nearly every dental issue, including TMJ disorders. We will help you find the option that works best for you and do our best to give you the quickest, most painless solution to your TMD.
At New Teeth Dental Solutions, we treat TMD with oral splints. They are often seen as the most effective, straightforward solution presented in the form of customized dental appliances. As always, if you have any further questions about this treatment or would like more information about other procedures, please contact our office.
The TMJ Splint
What is a TMJ splint? They are often referred to commercially and commonly as a mouthpiece, mouthguard, or night guard. They are a customized dental tray, worn like a retainer while you sleep to gently adjust your bite and prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Thus, it reduces the overall stress to your TMJ and reduces the pain and headaches associated with TMD.
In many cases, a TMJ splint can be the first step in a treatment plan discussed by your dentist to adjust your jaw position and thus permanently resolve your TMJ/TMD issues.
Get TMJ Disorder Treatment Today
Here at New Teeth Dental Solutions, we make sure we hold true to the highest of dental standards, providing our patients with the most comprehensive and comfortable dental care.
At our office, you will find treatment options and procedures that can resolve TMJ/TMD pain, chronic snoring, and sleep apnea, allowing you to get the restorative rest you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Click Now for Your FREE TMJ/TMD Sleep Solutions Consultation
