Living in the vibrant Triangle area of North Carolina brings daily opportunities and challenges. However, living with discomfort should never be part of your routine. If you’re experiencing issues with your jaw, it might be time to consider the possibility of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and ask yourself, “Do I need TMD treatment?”
Triangle Restoration Dentistry in Durham, NC, offers treatment for temporomandibular disorders. We can assess and treat various complex dental issues and help restore your smile, confidence, and quality of life. Call 888.280.2678 today to learn more.
Do I Need TMD Treatment?
TMD affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which acts as a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. This joint plays a crucial role in your ability to chew, speak, and even yawn. When it becomes dysfunctional, it can lead to significant discomfort and disruption.
Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of teeth, but they are also adept at managing complex dental and facial matters, including TMD. If you’re unsure whether you need treatment, consider the nature and duration of your symptoms. Are they persistent, affecting your quality of life, or causing you pain?
If the answer to the above questions is yes, seek a professional. The prosthodontists at Triangle Restoration Dentistry can assess your oral health, including temporomandibular disorders, and suggest treatment.
Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorders
Recognizing the symptoms of TMD can be the first step toward relief. Some common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness – Pain in the jaw joint area, face, or neck is a frequent complaint among TMD sufferers. This discomfort may be felt on one or both sides of the face.
- Difficulty chewing – TMD can make chewing difficult or uncomfortable, and in some cases, it may lead to a noticeable change in how your upper and lower teeth fit together.
- Lockjaw – Episodes of your jaw becoming locked in an open or closed position are concerning signs that should not be ignored.
- Clicking or popping sounds – These sounds may occur when opening or closing your mouth, sometimes accompanied by pain.
- Ear pain – TMD-related ear pain is often mistaken for an ear infection, as the pain may appear to be centered in or around the ear.
- Headaches – Chronic headaches, especially those that seem to originate from the temples, may be linked to TMD. Understanding these symptoms can help you communicate effectively with your dental care provider, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate treatment.
If you experience any of these symptoms—especially if they disrupt your quality of life—seek a dental professional for evaluation and treatment.
Contact Triangle Restoration Dentistry for TMD Treatment Options
If you reside in the Triangle area and are experiencing symptoms of TMD, Triangle Restoration Dentistry offers comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Specializing in prosthodontics, our team is dedicated to providing effective treatment plans that address the root cause of your TMD symptoms.
At Triangle Restoration Dentistry, we understand that each patient is unique, and so are their experiences with TMD. Our approach involves a thorough evaluation of your condition, using state-of-the-art technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis. From there, we work closely with you—and occasionally other orofacial pain specialists—to develop a personalized treatment plan aimed at alleviating your discomfort and restoring full functionality to your jaw.
Living with TMD can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent part of your life. If you’re ready to explore your treatment options, contact Triangle Restoration Dentistry at 888.280.2678 or reach out online. Let us help you take the first step toward a pain-free life.