An Introduction to TMJ and TMD
An Introduction to TMJ and TMD
Your mouth is not just one thing. Actually, dozens of different bones, muscles, and tissues work together to help us talk and eat food. And with so many moving parts, knowing which one is causing discomfort may not be easy without a professional. Today, we will look at one specific joint in the mouth to learn what can go wrong and how Beaverton Oral Surgeons can help.
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What Are TMJs and TMDs?
The temporomandibular joint (abbreviated to TMJ) connects the jawbone to the rest of the skull. TMJs are complex joints that allow our jaws to have a full range of motions. We can move up the jaw up and down, side to side, and backward and forwards.
In a healthy mouth, the TMJ works without us noticing. But if there is a problem with the TMJ, you may have chronic discomfort around the jaw. You may also notice an unpleasant clicking or popping noise when you move your mouth. Or you might notice that your jaw’s movements are limited. Although some people will see their symptoms go away on their own, others will have TMJ disorders (or TMDs) that need medical treatment.
Anyone can have TMDs, and as many as 10 million Americans are afflicted. TMDs can happen because of facial injuries or arthritis, although people with neither can still have TMDs. Though scientists study TMDs closely, some people without any injuries or bone problems can still get TMDs from unknown causes.
Treatment For TMDs
When the discomfort from TMDs does not go away on their own, it’s time to see your dentist. Your dentist will work with you to treat the TMD, starting with the simplest treatments. First, you may be asked to try some oral exercises to relax the joint. If the problem persists, a dentist can prescribe painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine. But for many people, these solutions are not enough, and the disorder persists.
Once you’ve exhausted the first treatment options without any progress, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon. All surgeries are a serious choice, no less for oral surgery. But for some people, surgery will be the only treatment of last resort.
If you have chronic TMD and are considering surgery, Beaverton Oral Surgeons are here to help. Our specialists have decades of experience in dealing with TMDs and other serious oral problems. To earn your trust and give you peace of mind, we start with a consultation to answer all your questions and go over your treatment options. To get started on relieving your TMD right away, please contact us at (503) 646-7101 or fill out the appointment form at the bottom of the page.