TMD

TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, is a unique condition that can affect both the joints and muscles in your jaw. These joints are responsible for connecting your jawbone to your skull and allowing you to chew, speak, and yawn. TMD often causes pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles, making it challenging to perform everyday activities.

At Dynamic Dental, we offer several treatment options for patients in and around Sacramento, California. They may include:

• Oral appliances. These custom-made mouthguards can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMD. They work by repositioning the jaw and reducing muscle and joint strain.
• Physical therapy. Specific exercises, activities, and stretches can be prescribed to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve the range of motion. This approach may also include massage therapy or ultrasound treatment.
• Medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers or muscle relaxants can temporarily relieve TMD symptoms. In some cases, prescription medicine may be necessary to manage chronic pain.
• Botox injections. Botulinum toxin injections can effectively relieve tension and spasms in the jaw muscles, providing long-lasting relief from TMD symptoms.
• Orthodontics. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can contribute to TMD. In these cases, orthodontic treatment, including braces or Invisalign, may be recommended to correct the underlying problem.
• Surgery. While rare, surgery may be necessary in severe cases of TMD that do not effectively respond to other treatments. This may include arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive procedure to remove fluid from the joint, or arthroscopy, a more involved procedure that can repair damage to the joint.
• Lifestyle changes. Patients with TMD can also make specific lifestyle changes to help manage their symptoms. This may include practicing stress-reducing techniques, avoiding hard or chewy food, and using heat or ice packs on the jaw for pain relief.