TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders occur when your jaw joints and chewing muscles fail to function properly. TMJ disorders might lead to more serious conditions if they are not treated swiftly. 

There is no single treatment that will entirely cure TMJ issues, and it may take some time for the effects to kick in and show results. We can help you get a healthier and more comfortable jaw at Jeanne V. Devi DDS.

What Is TMD?

TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disease. This term refers to any TMJ issue. Many people use the phrases TMJ and TMD interchangeably. TMJ dysfunction occurs when the muscles and ligaments surrounding your jaw joints become inflamed or irritated. The illness can be acute or chronic, and the discomfort can be modest or severe.

The Symptoms of TMD

• Soreness or discomfort in the jaw 
• Headaches
• Pain behind the eyes, across the face, shoulder, neck, and/or back
• Ringing in the ears or earaches 
• The jaw clicking or popping
• Locking of the jaw
• Clenching or grinding your teeth
• Dizziness
• Tooth sensitivity in the absence of an oral health disease

What Causes Temporomandibular Disorders?

Muscle tension, which is typically exacerbated by stress, is the most common cause of TMD symptoms. When you are stressed, you may have a propensity of clenching or grinding your teeth. These habits can fatigue the jaw muscles, resulting in a vicious cycle of muscular spasm, tissue damage, pain, aching muscles, and more spasm.

TMD can develop when there is an issue with the joint itself, such as:

• Any damage to the joint or the tissues around it.
• Problems with the form of the joint.
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two examples of joint illnesses.
• The articular disc, which cushions the joint, slips out of place.

TMD Treatment

There are several therapy alternatives available to restore your jawbone's proper function and harmony. The primary purpose is to alleviate joint pain and muscle spasms. Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants are commonly used to accomplish this. To alleviate pain and swelling, steroids can be injected directly into the joints.

Self-care therapies are just as effective. These are some examples:

• Taking care of your jaw joint
• When you're not eating or swallowing, keep your teeth apart.
• Dietary foods that are soft
• Using ice packs and heat packs
• Working on your jaw

Visit Jeanne V. Devi DDS at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101 for the best dental care, or call us at (626) 795-2544 to schedule an appointment.