What is TMD?
The acronym “TMD” stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. The temporomandibular joint is the jaw joint, in front of each ear. It consists of the lower jaw (the mandible), which pivots against a cartilage pad in the upper jaw. There are several jaw muscles that work together to open and close your mouth and help you chew, speak, and swallow.
Ligaments and nerves are also part of this complex structure. The jaw joint is the most complex joint in the body, as it moves in three ways:
- Vertically, to open and close the mouth
- Sideways
- Forward and back
When problems occur that keep this complex structure from working properly, the result is pain.
Who Can Treat TMD?
A growing number of health care practitioners and cosmetic dentists are qualified to diagnose and treat TMD. However, some people live with the pain of this disorder for years without really understanding what it is or knowing that it can be treated. Sometimes, TMD develops suddenly, as a result of a blow to the head, face or neck. Other times it creeps up slowly because of chronic tooth grinding or clenching, or the effects of tooth misalignment. Regardless of its cause, the TMD symptoms are similar.
How Do I Know if My Pain is Caused by TMD?
Often TMD begins with frequent, recurring headaches and migraine headaches. You might make the rounds of various doctors and try many medications, all to no effect, because the cause has not been addressed. Some other typical symptoms are:
- A clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth
- Persistent neck or shoulder pain
- Worn teeth surfaces
- A feeling of stiffness in the jaw when you open or close your mouth
- Tingling in the fingers
Since these problems could indicate other health issues, it is important to be seen by a qualified dental professional like Manhattan Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Iott, who has the training, expertise, and knowledge to correctly diagnose and offer TMD treatment.
Suggestions to help with pain
Ice Packs: excellent for reducing pain and controlling muscle spasms. Place them over the temples and side of the face for ten minutes several times a day.
Soft Diet: A good balanced diet of cooked whole grains, veggies, eggs, fish, cheese, fruit, etc. is best in relieving symptoms, because the force of chewing can aggravate your TMD and increase pain. Avoid hard-to-eat foods, like corn on the cob, apples, bread with hard crust, steak and so forth. And do not chew gum or chew ice as this will certainly worsen the pain. Consider cutting your food into smaller pieces to limit the amount of chewing you'll need to do. Try keeping your lips and teeth slightly apart while chewing, rather than “chomping” hard on the foods you are eating.
Sleep Positions: It's crucial to avoid sleeping on your stomach. Sleep on your back (with a pillow under your knees if that's comfortable for you). Or, sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and one between your arms to keep your head from pressing against your head pillow and aggravating your jaw joint.
Forced air flow can heighten your sensitivity, so avoid sleeping under ceiling fans or near vents.
Consider your daily habits. For example, do you practice good posture? Standing with your head erect, shoulders even and relaxed, and back straight is useful in supporting your back muscles when sitting or standing for long periods of time. Conversely, sitting in a relaxed position with your chin resting on the palm of your hand can misalign your muscles and ligaments, leading to pain.
When you yawn, place your fist underneath your lower jaw to keep your mouth from opening overly wide, which can put undue pressure on the sensitive joint.
When talking on the telephone, do not support the receiver in the crook of your neck.
We hope these tips will help you until you can visit with Dr. Iott for your evaluation. Remember, nothing substitutes for the care of a qualified dental professional like Dr. Michael Iott. His New York City Cosmetic Dentistry Office offers a five star experience that embraces tomorrow's technology today for patients suffering from a variety of general dental issues from whitening to veneers and so much more. Dr. Iott's expertise in treating TMD can help you find a permanent solution so you can improve your dental health and get back to enjoying life pain-free.
To learn more about TMD and TMJ or to schedule your private TMD Treatment consultation, email Manhattan Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Iott's friendly, caring cosmetic dentistry staff or call us toll free at (866) 801-4559. You can speak with New York Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Iott about your TMD and TMJ treatment options and ask your TMD and TMJ questions.
