TMJ Healing

What is TMD?

TMD (temporomandibular disorders) refers to a group of conditions that affects the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint or tmj) and the associated muscles used in movement of the jaw and neck.

Pain in the muscles of jaw and pain in the temporomandibular joint are the most common symptoms. Pain can also be from other sources such as the neck and teeth. Other symptoms include:

  • Limited movement or locking of the jaw
  • Radiating pain in the face, neck, shoulders or arms
  • Painful clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
  • A sudden, major change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
  • Unexplained headaches or facial pain including dull, aching, constant pain
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Tingling in the fingertips

What causes TMD?

When muscles and joints do not work properly, the muscles will often go into a spasm. This spasm can become part of a cycle that results in tissue damage, pain, muscle tenderness and more spasm.

Some of the possible causes of TMD include: Direct trauma due to a car accident, a blow, or a fall; whiplash type injuries; unconscious habits such as bruxism (clenching and grinding of the teeth); unusual stress; diseases such as arthritis; or sleep disorders.

While many of the above factors are believed to contribute to TMD, the exact cause is unknown and sometimes it is not possible to determine the cause of the symptoms.

Treatment Options for TMD

Dr. Luffey and his staff use a multi-faceted approach to looking at the entire body and then addressing the causes of the pain. Our goal is to restore our patients to optimal functioning without the use of drugs or invasive therapies. Many patients find relief with a dental appliance and adjunct therapies like chiropractic or physical therapy to retrain stressed muscles.

Interested in relief from TMD? Call today!