TMD Therapy in San Francisco
Did you know that your dentist is responsible for so much more than just the general health of your teeth? A dentist is trained to help you with any and all oral problems. Here at Yerba Buena Dentistry, we want each patient to have healthy teeth, gums, jaw bones, and even anything relating to your head. If you are having any pain with your jaw bone, you may have TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder. Keep reading to learn more about TMD and the different treatments that are offered here in our San Francisco office.
What is TMD?
Your jaw bone is connected to the skull with a joint called the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ for short. This joint acts as a hinge in the skull which allows the jaw to open and close, helping us speak, eat, drink, and more. Your jaw should move freely, without any clicks or tightness. Some symptoms of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) include:
- The frequent popping of your jaw
- Toothache-like pain
- Ear pain
- Headaches
- Difficulty chewing
TMD can be genetic or independently caused by other factors. The most common causes are arthritis and bruxism. Bruxism is the grinding of your teeth together, which can cause jaw pain and damage to your teeth. Usually, TMD can be treated with non-surgical options.
TMD Treatment
Bruxism’s number one cause is stress. Some people don’t even realize they are stressed and grinding their teeth. TMD treatment often includes relaxation methods to reduce stress. If the grinding takes place over long periods of time, then ice packs may be advised to help with inflammation. Sometimes, depending on severity, anti-inflammatory medication will also be prescribed.
One of the most common treatments for TMD is a mouth guard. A mouth guard can greatly reduce the negative effects of teeth grinding and prevent any further damage. A mouth guard is made using an impression of your teeth so that it fits you perfectly.
Other treatments may include physical therapy options, depending on the severity of your TMD.
If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms above, please do not hesitate to reach out to us here at Yerba Buena Dentistry. We will be happy to answer any of your questions over the phone or during a scheduled consultation. We want all residents of San Francisco, California, to know where they can turn to for help with TMD.