Across America, millions of people suffer from a serious medical issue known as TMJ disorder, or TMD. Over time, this disorder causes inflammation in the jaw joints, leading to difficulty chewing or even speaking. Fortunately, treatment is available to address the painful symptoms of TMD. In today’s blog, your Houston dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero, explains the causes of TMJ disorder and recommends a simple and minimally invasive treatment option.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder occurs when excessive strain is placed on the temporomandibular joints. These joints connect the jaw to the skull. They also control all jaw movement, including the motions necessary to eat and speak.
Symptoms and Causes of TMD
Patients suffering from TMD report a wide array of similar symptoms, including:
- A popping or crackling sensation in the jaw
- Headaches or migraines
- Toothaches
- Earaches and tinnitus
- Jaw and face pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty biting down
A variety of factors can lead to a patient developing TMJ disorder. The main causes include: bite misalignment, injury to the jaw or face, and bruxism. Also known as teeth grinding, bruxism often occurs during sleep and as a result, many patients don’t realize they grind their teeth. Over time, teeth grinding also damages teeth, leaving them worn down or broken.
Treatment for TMJ Disorder
Dr. Gennero offers a simple and comfortable method of treating TMJ disorder. An intraoral device, similar to a mouth guard, addresses TMD caused by either misalignment or teeth grinding. The oral appliance repositions to the jaw to end misalignment and also prevents the upper and lower teeth from touching, eliminating teeth grinding.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Houston General Dentist
Do you exhibit any of the symptoms of TMJ disorder? Interested in our innovative TMD treatment? Make an appointment with your Houston general dentist today. Dr. Gennero offers the latest in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Contact our Houston dentist office by calling (281) 578-6200. We are proud to offer comprehensive dentistry to patients from Clear Lake to The Woodlands, including Katy, Houston, West Houston, Sugarland, the 77084 zip code, and surrounding neighborhoods.
