TMJ Disorder (TMD) affections millions of people and it can be extremely painful. It most commonly causes headaches, but because this is a symptom of many issues, it can be difficult to explicitly diagnose TMD as the root cause. Severe, persistent headaches can completely wreck your normal functionality, so it is important to figure out the cause and treat it accordingly. Your time is precious and to lose it to painful headaches is a major shame. If you do, in fact, suffer from TMJ Disorder, we can help solve the condition. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist talks about this disorder and the treatments we can provide.
Understanding TMD
TMJ Disorder, also known as Temporomandibular joint dysfunction happens when the joints that connect your jaw to your skull become misaligned or unbalanced. When there is a misalignment, these joints work harder, damaging and inflaming them. What’s more, because these joints are almost always in motion from speaking, chewing, and eating, they can rarely heal on their own. Symptoms of TMD include consistent headaches and migraine, earaches, bruxism (teeth-grinding), a popping jaw, and more. Interestingly, in addition to being a symptom of TMJ, bruxism can also cause TMJ Disorder. Each can intensify the other, so a painful loop can occur if not treated as soon as possible.
Treating TMJ Disorder
If we determine you have TMD, we will first take highly precise digital impressions of your teeth and gums, using our Itero® imaging technology. This allows us to get an extremely accurate impression of your mouth, without needing to use messy and powdery molds of your teeth. Not only is this more comfortable, but it is also more precise. Once we have the impressions, we can then create an oral splint. This is a nightguard you wear while you sleep to reposition your jaw. Because it is custom-made using impressions, it will be comfortable and designed specifically to meet your needs. Overall, the oral splint will allow your jaw joints to heal and relieve the pain you’re feeling in your head, ears, neck, and even lower back in some more extreme cases. We can also suggest other orthodontic treatments to improve the overall alignment of your teeth and jaw.
Please Contact Us To Learn More
If you are suffering from unexplained headaches, TMJ Disorder could very well be the cause. If so, it is important to take action quickly to relieve pain and allow your jaw joints to heal. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in White Settlement, North Fort Worth, Springtown, and all surrounding communities.
