TMJ/TMD Treatment In Montebello, CA

TMJ/TMD refers to a condition called “temporomandibular joint disorder.” This is a medical condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, which are the small and delicate joints that connect the jaw to the skull. 
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These joints are located just underneath each of your ears. If these joints become inflamed, strained, or otherwise damaged, this can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, and the joints themselves may not work properly.

The most common sign of TMJ/TMD is aching, radiating jaw and facial pain, often focused near the ears. You may also feel pain and tenderness when chewing. 
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In some cases, you may have trouble opening your mouth all the way, or you may notice clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in your jaw when you move your mouth or chew. 
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In the most severe cases, your jaw may actually get “stuck” or “locked” into a certain position until it is realigned.

Usually, there is no single cause of TMJ/TMD. Many different things can contribute to it. Jaw overuse is usually a contributing factor. For example, if you chew a lot of gum or clench and grind your teeth (bruxism), this could lead to strain and damage to the jaw joints.
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Arthritis and other inflammatory diseases can also contribute to and cause TMJ/TMD. Direct trauma to the joint from a slip and fall, car accident, or other injury is also a major risk factor for developing TMJ/TMD, since this can cause the joint to slip out of proper alignment or damage the joint itself.

This depends on your case. Some mild cases of TMJ/TMD can be treated with physical therapy and lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress to stop clenching and grinding and eating a soft diet for a while to reduce strain on the joint.
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More commonly, though, further intervention is required. At , we offer occlusal guards for TMJ/TMD, which are highly effective for treating many forms of TMJ/TMD. These devices are worn at night, and help reposition your jaw to relieve strain on the joints. They also help prevent nighttime clenching and grinding, which is a major contributing factor to TMJ/TMD. 
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In rare cases, surgery may be required. However, this is always a last resort, and most TMJ/TMD cases can be resolved without the need for surgical intervention. In need of TMJ/TMD treatment? Consult with an experienced Montebello dentist today at Whittier Palm Dental.