TMJ disorder, sometimes referred to as TMD, is a common oral health issue that develops when the jaw joints are strained. Over time, this can lead to chronic headaches and migraines, and impact your oral health. In today’s blog, your Sheridan, WY, dentist talks about the link between migraines and untreated TMJ disorder.

The Causes and Symptoms of TMD

TMJ disorder occurs when the joints connecting your jaw and skull undergo excess strain and stress, which leads to problems fully opening and closing your mouth and an array of uncomfortable symptoms. The causes could be linked to issues that upset bite balance, such as missing teeth, malocclusion from dental misalignment, injury to the face or jaw, complications with the development of the jaw and certain oral structures, or even untreated teeth grinding. Warning signs include headaches and migraines of course, as well as pain in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. A popping or clicking sensation in the jaw is often reported as well. When you experience these symptoms, you should let us know right away so we can conduct a diagnosis for TMD and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

The Link to Bruxism

Untreated TMD can increase the risk of chronic teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism. The reverse is true as well. Teeth grinding should be treated right away, as this could wear down and damage tooth structure to increase the risk of cavities and infections, and create negative impacts on your smile’s appearance. Many of the symptoms are similar, but you may also experience tooth sensitivity and toothaches, and notice changes to the appearance of your teeth, as they’re damaged or shortened.

Oral Appliance Therapy

Once we uncover the presence of the disorder, we will recommend the most appropriate treatment. For some, this includes orthodontics to correct misalignment, or a dental prosthetic to replace missing teeth. We could also improve overall bite balance with crown placement or even dental bonding. But for most, we will take detailed digital images of the smile and use them to design and craft an oral appliance. Worn as you sleep, the custom-fitted device will shift the jaw to ease strain and also put a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent bruxism-related damage. This is a comfortable and convenient solution to concerns like TMD and bruxism.

If you have any questions about how we diagnose and treat TMJ disorder, then contact our team today to learn more.

Talk To Your Sheridan, WY Dentist About Treating TMJ Disorder

We want to help you avoid chronic headaches and dental pain. To find out how our team can improve the balance and health of your smile, then reach out to Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY at 307-672-7567.