Sarasota Dentist TMD - Sarasota cosmetic and family dentistry

Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder

Open your jaw all the way and shut it. This simple movement would not be possible without the Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ). It connects the temporal bone (the bone that forms the side of the skull) and the mandible (the lower jaw). Even though it is only a small disc of cartilage, it separates the bones so that the mandible may slide easily whenever you talk, swallow, chew, kiss, etc. Therefore, damage to this complex, triangular structure in front of your ear, can cause considerable discomfort.

People who suffer from symptoms such as headaches, earaches, tenderness of the jaw muscles, or dull, aching facial pain may suffer from TMD (temporomandibular) joint disorders. The muscles and joints may not function properly, resulting in cycles of pain and spasms. These disorders can have a variety of causes and, can be treated. You may also have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Since TMD symptoms (e.g., tooth clenching or grinding, headaches, jaw pain or discomfort, clicking, grating, difficulty in opening or closing your jaw) can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important. Treatment usually requires combinations of therapies such and bite splints , massage therapy, nutrition, and life style modification. No one treatment can resolve TMD/TMJ disorders completely.

TMD may show up as one or more of the following symptons:

• Front Of Head (Head Aches)
• Back Of Head (Head Aches)
• Migraines (Head Aches)
• Facial Pain (Head Aches)
• Sinus Pain (Head Aches)
• Eye Pain
• Pain Behind Eyes
• Blurred Vision
• Ear Pain
• Hearing Loss R/L
• Hissing, Buzzing or Roaring Sounds In The Ears (Tinnitus)
• Clogged, Itchy Ears
• Balance Problems
• Clicking or Popping Jaw Joints (TMJ'S) R/L
• Grating Sounds
• Jaw Locking, Open or Closed
• Jaw Deviates to one side on Opening
• Limited Opening
• Pain In Either TMJ
• Neck Pain
• Neck Stiffness
• Lack Of Mobility, Reduced Neck Rotation