Willow Dental Toronto Cosmetic Dentistry Blog

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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

What is TMD?

TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. TMD can also be referred to as TMJ or temporomandibular joint syndrome. Temporomandibular joint disorder is a disorder that affects the joint that connects the jaw bone with the skull. The disorder is caused by a misaligned bite. The misaligned bite puts extra stress on the joint, which causes swelling, and results in severe pain in many different areas of your body.

The symptoms of TMD are what makes this disorder difficult to diagnose. The symptoms include:

  • Severe headaches
  • Cracking of the jaw
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Grinding of the teeth
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Numbness in the fingers and arms

Most often people who suffer from the above symptoms seek treatment from a medical doctor, not thinking that what could be causing their symptoms is a dental issue. Although a medical doctor is able to diagnose TMD, it is much more likely that you will get a faster diagnosis from a dentist, and also a dentist will be able to provide the treatment for TMD.

TMD can be treated fairly easily. A neuromuscular dentist will relax your facial muscles and determine the optimum position for your jaw bone. Your jaw will then be repositioned in order to achieve that optimal position. After you receive treatment for your TMD, you will no longer suffer from any symptoms.

If you would like to learn more about TMD, please contact Willow Dental Associates in Mississauga, Ontario, today for your initial consultation.

posted by Tiffany at 2:26 PM