Last month I wrote about Temporomandibular disorder (commonly referred to as TMD) and some of the symptoms that occur in dental patients. It is a topic of such interest that I thought more discussion was warranted.
When a patient arrives in the dental office with symptoms indicative of TMD (headaches, jaw pain, etc), the doctor will do a thorough health history and exam. He is looking for recent traumas, increased stress, the presence of arthritis in other joints, and other symptoms.
During the exam, the doctor will listen for sounds from the jaw, like clicking, popping or grating sounds. He’ll examine the jaw as it opens and closes to see if the movement is smooth. He will determine the jaw’s range of motion and he will palpitate the area to determine specific sites of pain.
The protocol for treating TMD suggests starting with conservative treatments. Lifestyle changes, such as eating softer foods, taking smaller bites and purposefully keeping the jaw unclenched are recommended. Medication is sometimes prescribed, including NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil and Naproxen) and muscle relaxants.
Custom-fitted night guards will provide relief from TMD, as well as ice and moist heat. Physical therapy and corticosteroid injections may help the symptoms.
Another treatment option is the use of Botox injections to partially “turn off” the muscles in the jaw, providing relief from the grinding and teeth clenching. While Botox is not indicated for every TMD patient, it is another “tool” for the dentist’s use. To provide Botox, the dentist must complete additional course work and hands-on training. Dentists are usually able to complete this training efficiently due to their vast training in facial anatomy and nerve structure, as well as experience in giving facial injections.
The bottom line is this – relief is almost always available for people suffering from TMD. The first step is a visit to your dentist or physician. If you are suffering from TMD, call 215-364-2420 and make that appointment now! Also visit www.buckscountydentaldesign.com.
