Living with TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD, refers to a range of painful conditions that affect the jaw, jaw joint (also known as the temporomandibular joint), and surrounding muscles. While there is not a single specific cause of TMD, certain factors such as stress, arthritis, poor jaw and bite alignment, and other dental-related conditions may increase the likelihood of developing TMD.

The jaw and jaw joint are responsible for a number of subconscious functions, such as biting, chewing, speaking, and even breathing. When this functionality is compromised by the development of TMD, the condition can greatly impede a patient’s daily life, making it painful and difficult to even open their mouth.

To alleviate some of the discomfort caused by TMD, many patients find oral appliances or stabilization splints to be a versatile, and a minimally invasive method of alleviating their pain. When combined with some at home remedies, patients quickly notice an improvement in their quality of life and overall dental function. Some of these at-home solutions include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication: The swelling of the muscles and tissues surrounding the joint can make basic oral functions extremely painful. Taking ibuprofen or another over-the-counter anti-inflammatory can help reduce this swelling.
•  Learn to Relax: By learning relaxation techniques that lower your overall stress level, many patients that clench or grind their teeth when stressed can help loosen their jaws and alleviate their TMD-related pain.
• Eating soft foods: Crunchy, chewy, or hard foods can also cause joint inflammation. Sticking to softer foods can help patients avoid having to use their jaws excessively and prevent painful TMD flare-ups.
• Separate your teeth: As many individuals clench or grind their teeth when stressed, this may trigger painful TMD episodes. Rather than clenching, try putting your tongue between your teeth to create a cushion between the arches and prevent grinding.
• Try jaw stretches: By practicing minor stretches daily, patients can improve their range of pain-free jaw movement, increasing the overall functional capabilities of the joint.

Thanks to modern dentistry, there are a wide range of treatments available to help alleviate the pain caused by TMD. At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, our team helps patients identify the best solution for their unique case of TMD, improving their overall dental function and jaw health. For more information about treating TMD with oral appliances, contact our Lorton or Springfield dental offices today.