What Is Temporomandibular Disorder?

If you’ve been suffering from jaw pain or discomfort, you may have a condition known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The good news is that your trusted team at Avalon Dental Care offers comfortable and effective TMD treatments for long-term symptom relief. You can always count on us for exceptional, individualized attention and dental care you can trust!

What Is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are the two joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. If they sustain injury or damage or if the muscles, ligaments, disk, jaw, and temporal bones are not aligned or synchronized in movement, you may develop TMD. Other causes of TMD include teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), stress, arthritis, and chewing gum.

Common Symptoms of TMD

Patients with TMD often report pain that can be constant or intermittent and may be quite severe. Common TMD symptoms include:

• Tension headaches
• A toothache or earache
• A dull ache in the jaw and surrounding areas
• Painful chewing, biting, or yawning
• Popping or clicking when opening or closing the mouth
• A stuck or frozen jaw

TMD Treatments for Symptom Relief

Your trusted team at Avalon Dental Care will evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs. If your TMD results from misaligned teeth or an improper bite, we may recommend orthodontic treatment or restorations to correct the problem. If there is no structural problem, but there are defective interferences on the teeth affecting the bite and jaw closure, we may recommend reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth, a procedure known as occlusal equilibrium.

We may also recommend oral appliance therapy using a stabilization splint known as a bite guard to help reduce stress on your jaw and improve your bite. Moreover, many patients benefit from the use of custom nightguards that eliminate teeth grinding and gently reposition the jaw joints in a more favorable position, effectively reducing muscle strain and tension.

TMD Treatment in El Segundo and Lomita

If you are experiencing TMD symptoms, contact Avalon Dental Care for the relief you need. You don’t have to live with TMD symptoms and discomfort anymore. Call us and schedule your appointment today!