Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) are some of the most common disorders of the oral and facial region. While TMD and TMJ are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings. TMJ refers to the hinges connecting the jaw to the skull, while TMD is the term that encompasses all of the symptoms related to the dysfunction of the jaw and surrounding tissues.
When you experience the signs of TMD, such as chronic headaches or jaw pain, contacting your dentist is the first step to finding relief. In some cases, conservative treatments like mouthguards or lifestyle changes can be enough to ease discomfort and prevent the development of symptoms. However, more severe cases of TMJ may require a restorative treatment, including dental crowns, bridges, or other restorations.
By addressing the underlying cause of your symptoms, you can restore your smile and regain the full function of your mouth.
Improved Bite Function
The improved structure and function of the jaw and teeth not only give you cosmetic benefits but also functional ones. With proper alignment, your teeth will fit together properly when you close your mouth. This reduces the amount of strain that is placed on your jaw muscles, allowing them to relax more completely and reducing or even eliminating symptoms of TMD.
Proper alignment of your jaw also takes the pressure off of your temporomandibular joints (the joints that allow you to open and close your mouth), preventing them from experiencing the kind of damage that leads to the development of TMJ disorders.
Improved Function Of The Jaw Joint
The proper function of the TMJ is important for allowing you to chew your food properly and speak clearly. If it becomes misaligned, you may have difficulty eating certain foods because the mouth cannot open fully. This can lead to malnutrition over time as you struggle to get the nutrition you need.
A More Beautiful Smile
TMJ disorder can result in a number of cosmetic issues, such as chipped and cracked teeth or a misaligned bite. However, we can treat these imperfections with cosmetic dentistry solutions. For example, the misalignment of your jaw can cause your front teeth to overlap, which can affect your smile’s appearance. We can use Invisalign clear aligners to correct the issue and improve your oral health at the same time. We can also use dental crowns to restore cracked or missing teeth.
Dr. Lisa Baker and her caring team want their Bloomington area patients to enjoy beautiful, healthy smiles. For more information on dental procedures, call us for a consultation at (812) 269-8230.
