TMJ Specialist
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are the second-most common pain-causing musculoskeletal condition in the United States, yet only 1 in 3 people seek treatment. The team at Skyview Dentistry, including Seti Byrd, DMD, and Jennifer D’Silva, DDS, has considerable experience in helping their patients in Charlotte, North Carolina, overcome the discomfort of TMJ pain. To avoid the complications of a TMD, call or use the online scheduling tool to book an appointment.
TMJ Q & A
What is a TMD or TMJ?
A TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is one of a collection of disorders that affect your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Your TMJ is the bone structure, muscles, and connective tissues that surround your jaw and control chewing.
When you experience a disorder of this joint, you typically have pain and tenderness near your jaw, as well as popping or clicking in the joint when you speak or chew. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, muscle pain, malocclusion, and tooth damage from grinding or clenching. Interestingly, TMDs affect twice as many women as men.
How is a TMD treated?
The expert and caring dentists at Skyview Dentistry treat TMJ disorders in many ways, ranging from noninvasive therapies and bite splints to injections or surgery.
First, one of the dentists evaluates the extent of the condition and determines what course of treatment is best for your unique situation. Usually, your dentist starts off with conservative treatments, such as self-care, physical therapy, and bite guards. Your dentist may also prescribe medications to relax your jaw and relieve your pain.
As part of your overall musculoskeletal structure, your TMJ may also benefit from posture correction and a change in sleep position.
If you don’t respond to more conservative treatments, the dentist may recommend surgery or joint injections.
What should I expect if I undergo treatment for my TMJ?
TMJ treatment varies from one patient to the next, so your experience may differ from someone else’s. In most cases, the team at Skyview Dentistry asks you to adopt certain lifestyle changes to help facilitate rehabilitation in your jaw.
For example, they may ask you to avoid sudden jaw movements, such as yelling or yawning. They may also suggest that you begin sleeping on your back and that you take steps to reduce your stress levels.
If you undergo aggressive treatment, such as surgery, you may be put on an all-liquid diet while the site heals. You’ll also need to apply ice to your face to minimize swelling and keep the surgical site clean and dry.
To find relief from TMJ pain, call Skyview Dentistry or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment.
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