It Could be TMJ Disorder
Did you know that between 5 and 12% of the population is estimated to suffer from TMJ disorder? And that, unlike most chronic pain conditions, the majority of sufferers are younger? Even worse, many people suffering from TMJ Disorder have traveled from doctor to doctor, specialist to specialist without a diagnosis, help, or relief. Some dentists even avoid TMD patients because they think they are a bit crazy! Wow. That could make anyone’s pain even worse, right?
Here’s the thing: problems with the TMJ and the causes of that constant pain, tightness, and damage are pretty complicated – and potentially confusing.
TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint. Surrounding and supporting it is a system of muscles and tendons. If this system is overloaded, stressed, or damaged, this delicate system can begin to spasm and keep spasming. When these muscles keep flaring up, you can develop TMD – Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.
Wellspring Dental would like to help. We understand the causes of TMD, know how to look for and interpret the symptoms, and have outstanding, non-invasive methods to treat it. No more run-around. No more self-doubt. And finally, reduced pain and improved quality of life.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ Disorder or TMD has myriad causes with issues and symptoms very specific to you. That’s why we don’t offer a one-size-fits-all solution to our Wellspring TMD patients. Some of the more common causes of TMD include:
- A bad bite or dysfunction in the way your teeth work together
- Clenching or grinding
- Stressful lifestyles
- Medications
- Trauma or whiplash
- Arthritis
- Poorly balanced restorations
- Missing teeth
But whatever the cause, TMD most often presents itself in ongoing clenching and grinding, a muscular reaction that can lead to worn-down, broken, or even lost teeth.
Wellspring Dental’s Treatment Options
Our founding dentists are both Dawson Scholars with advanced and specific training in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of TMJ issues. “The Dawson Academy teaches a process for detailed, systematic treatment planning with photography and properly-mounted diagnostic casts to arrive at the best, least invasive, restorative option for the patient.” (thedawsonacademy.com)
Again, Wellspring simply does not believe in the same treatment for everyone. You are unique and so are the causes and symptoms of your TMJ Disorder. We treat you and the condition of your temporomandibular joint with respect, compassion, and a plan created with you, not for you. Treatments we offer and ancillary treatments we suggest could include:
- A custom-made oral appliance to relax your jaw and balance your bite
- A soft diet, no gum chewing, and no nail biting or other stressors on your jaw
- Adjustments of your teeth so that they work in harmony with each other
- Orthodontics to reduce pressure and imbalance
- Physical therapy
- Meditation
- Anti-inflammatory measures such as dietary changes, supplements, or NSAIDs
- Heat and ice therapy
If you have jaw spasms, clicking or popping, neck pain, and an ongoing headache or migraine, (see a more complete list of symptoms here-link) take a deep breath, apply some heat, and give one of Wellspring’s NYC area locations a call. You aren’t crazy, you’re in pain! And we can help.