Bucks County Dental Design

If you experience recurring headaches, especially in the morning, you could be experiencing a symptom of Temporomandibular Disorder, commonly called TMD.  Of course headaches have many potential causes, but I want to address a problem that I sometimes see in my dental practice.

Patients who suffer from TMD have often “been around the block”, trying to understand the root of some tiresome symptoms.  These symptoms can range from headache, neck and back aches to tooth pain (where there is no decay), clenched jaws, locked jaw, swelling, pain around the ears, and more.

By the time a patient lands in a dental office for treatment, he is often frustrated and stressed out – which could further aggravate the TMD!  Usually, however, the dentist can provide some relief for this condition.

To understand TMD, you must know that the mandible (or jaw bone) is attached bilaterally to the temporal bone with a hinge-like joint.  The joint allows for the movement of the jaw, which is how we eat, talk, and yawn.  This joint is in constant use throughout the day, so when it is not functioning correctly, it can cause problems.  

It is often hard to nail down the exact reason for a patient’s TMD. It could be caused by a variety of issues, including an earlier injury to the face or jaw, malocclusion (improper bite), or stress, to name a few.

Whatever the reason for the TMD, landing in your dental office is a good first step.  Your dentist will usually start with very conservative treatment.  This could be the recommendation of anti-inflammatory drugs and the application of ice or heat.  Often, the dentist will recommend appliance therapy (commonly referred to as a night guard), which correctly positions the jaw for the sleep hours.  

Your dentist will work with you to get this problem in check, because TMD can be extremely frustrating.  Most dentists are happy to refer their patients to specialists when conservative measures don’t work. 

Call us for an appointment today at 215-364-2420. Also, visit www.BucksCountyDentalDesign.com.