Dental Treatments

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

What is Temporomandibular Disorder or TMD ?

It is a big word for jaw joint pain, also called TMJ Syndrome. Often TMD presents itself as a popping sound and a sensation near the jaw joint.

Who can have TMD?

TMD can afflict people of all ages, although patients under 40 are more susceptible, and it occurs more frequently in women. TMD is often brought on by stress.

What are the Symptoms of TMD?

  • Headaches
  • Ear aches,Stuffiness, or ringing in the ears.
  • Pain or soreness in and around the jaw joints.
  • Dizziness
  • Numbness in the fingers and arms
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Limited movement or locking jaw
  • Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Neck, shoulder or back pain
  • Facial Pain
  • Unexplained loosening of teeth

This cycle of pain, spasms, and joint imbalance can be started by clenching and grinding the teeth, a bad bite caused by missing teeth or poorly aligned teeth, a blow to the joint, arthritis or emotional stress.

What can be done if you suspect TMD?

In order to determine the best course of treatment, an accurate diagnosis is imperative. Consult with Dr. Kozelko to determine if you are suffering from TMD. To restore balance to the joint, we may adjust the bite using a procedure called equilibration. A bite splint, which is a plastic mouthpiece that is made to fit in our lab, can reduce clenching and grinding. Or a small bite splint called an NTI which will also help restore harmony to the joint.

Millions of people suffer from TMD. Treatment and lifestyle changes can break the TMD cycle and restore balance to the joint.