A temporomandibular disorder causes pain or tenderness in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of the jaw. The TMJ, a complex joint enabling chewing, swallowing, yawning, and speaking, works with surrounding muscles and ligaments, providing a wide range of movement.
TMDs can inflict severe pain on some individuals, affecting approximately 33% of people over their lifetime. Learn more about TMJ treatment!
Tooth pain or jaw pain – we provide TMJ treatment in the Hadlock area. Injury or arthritis often trigger TMDs, sometimes in combination. It has been observed that clenching or grinding teeth can worsen joint pain. Additionally, a link exists between stress and TMD, although it remains unclear whether stress causes joint pain or if joint pain leads to stress.
Severe TMJ pain can significantly impact one’s life. A medical professional must diagnose the specific type of TMD afflicting you due to the broad spectrum of disorders.
We are your family dentist in Hadlock near the Port Hadlock-Irondale, WA area. TMD discomfort may escalate with prolonged mouth opening; therefore, please inform us if you experience these symptoms. We strive to accommodate your needs during appointments and are eager to discuss treatment options, potentially referring you to a specialist for further care. Please feel free to ask any questions without hesitation.
Sources and References
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941
Canadian Dental Association: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/talk/complications/temporomandibular_disorder/
American Family Physician-Diagnosis and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders: https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0315/p378.html
Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy-Management and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Clinical Perspective: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2813497/
Hadlock Dental Center wholeheartedly embraces a patient-first approach that your entire family will truly value. Our dentists use their experience and knowledge to adapt to your needs and address your concerns first!