How Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Can Impact Your Smile

Dr. Edward Camacho of San Antonio, Texas, is a dentist offering a wide range of services, including the diagnosis of TMJ/TMD. TMD disorders can be problematic for patients due to joint dysfunction. Continue reading to find out how TMJ/TMD can affect your smile.

Understanding TMJ and TMJ Disorder

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. TMJ disorders often cause pain and dysfunction in this joint, impacting your ability to chew, speak, and even yawn. In some cases, TMJ disorders can also affect the health of your smile.

If you notice the symptoms of a TMJ disorder, it’s essential to seek treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. When left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to long-term damage to the joint and surrounding tissues. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to correct the problem.

In addition to causing pain, TMJ disorders can also impact the alignment of your teeth. If you have a misaligned bite, it can put unnecessary stress on the TMJ, exacerbating your symptoms. In some cases, TMJ disorders can cause teeth to shift out of alignment. Many patients reach out to Dr. Edward Camacho for jaw pain relief with joint dysfunction treatment.

What is the Best Treatment for Patients with TMJ/TMD?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best treatment for TMJ/TMD will vary depending on the individual case. However, a few general principles can help guide treatment decisions.

If you are experiencing mild symptoms of TMJ/TMD, conservative treatments such as pain relief medication, ice packs, and jaw exercises may be all that are necessary to find relief. One of the most common causes of TMJ is misaligned teeth.

Some of the most common treatments for TMJ/TMD include:

• Orthodontic treatment: In some cases, orthodontic treatment can correct bite problems contributing to TMJ/TMD symptoms.
• Oral appliance therapy: Wearing a custom-fit oral appliance at night can help position the jaw correctly and reduce stress on the TMJ.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery can correct anatomical problems with the TMJ.

Request a Consultation with Our Team Today!

If you are experiencing any TMJ disorder symptoms or concerns, see Dr. Edward Camacho of Cosmetic Dentistry of San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas, for an evaluation. Proper treatment can reduce pain and improve your ability to chew, speak, and yawn. Call 210-405-3157 to request an appointment at our office, conveniently located at 16530 Huebner Road 301.