What Causes TMD?
The most common cause of TMD is a bite that is out of balance. When the bite is “off” (also known as bite malocclusion), the jaw muscles, ligaments and nerves become strained as they are forced out of this correct position to maintain the jaw’s new incorrect position.
When TMD goes untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, arthritis in the jaw joint and the potential for the partial or total loss of jaw use for some individuals.
Other causes of TMD include mid-face deficiency, caused when the jaws do not grow properly, and injuries, such as a blow to the face or accident.
Although the exact number of people living with TMD is unknown, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates about 10 million Americans suffer from the condition. The NIDCR also believes that many more individuals have TMD but are undiagnosed.
Restore Modern Dentistry Can Help Treat TMD
Our dentists at Restore Modern Dentistry specialize in treating TMD and use advanced technology techniques such as neuromuscular dentistry to help find the source of your jaw pain and uncomfortable symptoms and restore your quality of life.
TMD | The Great Imposter
In many cases, TMD can be difficult to diagnose. This difficulty occurs because its symptoms often mimic the symptoms of other conditions, including ear infections, sinus pain, facial pain, migraines and headaches, damaged teeth and poor gum health, back and neck problems, and movement disorders like vertigo.
Because of this, TMD is often referred to as “The Great Imposter.”
This means many people affected by TMD go years without proper treatment and live in pain and discomfort as its symptoms worsen. Many TMD patients report frequent and unsuccessful trips to chiropractors; ear, nose and throat doctors; and other specialists to find a cure for their pain, only to find no real relief.
At Restore Modern Dentistry, we recognize the signs and symptoms of TMD and can help. We can treat the root cause of your pain and get you back to living pain-free!