Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are a group of conditions that can cause pain or dysfunction in the jaw joints and muscles that control jaw movement. TMD may be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma to the jaw joint, arthritis, teeth grinding, or misalignment. It can develop gradually and without any obvious cause.
TMD may not be life-threatening but it can have a significant impact on your comfort and dental health if untreated. Mount Laurel Dental & Implant Center has effective solutions to manage TMD, and relieve the pain and discomfort that it can cause.
TMD can cause chronic facial pain. This is especially true in the area around the jaw. The discomfort can be felt on the cheeks or neck and shoulders, depending on how severe the condition is.
TMD can cause pain when you eat or if your bite doesn't feel right. Joint dysfunction can make chewing difficult.
A variety of factors can cause TMD. At Mount Laurel Dental & Implant Center, Dr. Suh evaluates each patient's TMD and determines the best treatment. Some of the most common causes are:
Direct trauma to the face or jaw, such as an injury during sports or an accidental blow, can result in TMD. Dislocations or fractures may cause lasting TMJ damage, leading to chronic pain and functional limitations.
Bruxism occurs when you grind your teeth, or clench your mouth while asleep. This repetitive movement places excess stress on the TMJ. It can lead to muscle tension and joint problems.
Arthritis can cause cartilage to degrade in the TMJ. This can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced jaw mobility.
The jaw can be strained when the upper and bottom teeth are not aligned properly. It is trying to compensate for this misalignment. This can lead to wear and tear of the TMJ over time.
Stress can increase muscle tension, which could contribute to TMD. Stress can cause people to clench or grind their teeth, putting strain on their TMJ.
A qualified dentist such as Dr. Suh can diagnose if you have TMD. We use advanced diagnostic tools at Mount Laurel Dental & Implant Center to determine the condition of your jaw and the best treatment.
During the evaluation, Dr. Suh will:
After a diagnosis has been made, Dr. Suh will review your options for treatment and create a plan that is tailored to your needs.
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Mt Laurel Dental & Implant Center Professional Team
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