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Neuromuscular Dentistry FAQ

In Chicago and surrounding areas

What does TMD mean?
TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. It’s used to mean the same thing as TMJ, which stands for Temporomandibular Joint, although the term Syndrome is implied after that, and TMJ refers to the symptoms and disorder, not to the joint itself.

The temporomandibular joint is the jaw joint, where the lower jaw connects with the skull. You can feel it moving if you put your finger in front of your ear and open your mouth. It’s a delicate joint and very flexible, as it can move forward and back, and side to side, as well as up and down.

If the teeth meet in a misaligned way when the mouth is closed, rubbing or bumping against each other, tension builds up in the jaw joint, since we open and close our mouths so often each day. The muscles get strained, and this stress spreads over time to the ligaments that connects the muscles to the bones, and even to the bones themselves. There are three large nerves running through the temple and facial areas. If inflammation sets in and these nerves are affected, severe pain can be the result.

What are the symptoms of TMD?
Some of the most common symptoms of a misaligned jaw (or TMD) include:

• Bruxism (tooth grinding)
• Jaw pain and soreness
• “Locking” jaw
• Difficulty chewing
• Headaches, neckaches, and other muscle pains

What treatments are available?
We offer a variety of treatments for temporomandibular disorder (TMD), from custom-fitted appliances to control bruxism, to reconstructive dental work to help the jaw realign itself naturally.

How can I prevent TMD?
As a patient, the most important thing you can do to prevent TMD is to choose a dentist with experience in neuromuscular dentistry. Your dentist will check for early signs of TMD, and will ensure that your dental work does not cause or exacerbate any problems with your temporomandibular joint. If you are aware of problems go see a dentist so they can control or fix your problems.

Other questions?
If you have any other questions not answered here, call or email us today to schedule your personal consultation with Colonial Dental Group. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have.