Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

While TMJ refers to the joint itself, TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) refers to a spectrum of disorders that affect it. Diagnosing TMD isn’t always straightforward because symptoms can vary and often mirror other conditions. And just as no two individuals are the same, TMD manifests differently from person to person, so diagnosing it requires us to take a highly personalized approach.
Spotting the Signs of TMD
There’s a wide array of symptoms tied to TMD. Some of the most common include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Aching pain in and around the ear
- Difficult or painful chewing
- Facial pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Teeth grinding or bruxism
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Popping or clicking sounds when the jaw moves
If you routinely experience one or more of these symptoms, we encourage you to contact our Surf City dental office so we can help you.
Treating TMJ Pain and Problems
Our commitment to whole-body health at Surf City Dental goes beyond treating symptoms. We are dedicated to understanding the root cause and identifying underlying triggers.
With our expertise and advanced diagnostic technology, we tailor your treatment to target the source of the problem and ensure lasting relief.
Depending on the diagnosis, your bespoke plan might involve:
- Custom-made oral appliances to reposition the jaw.
- Physical therapy techniques focused on the jaw and neck.
- Medications to relieve pain or reduce inflammation.
- Orthodontic treatment for bite-related TMJ problems
- BOTOX® injections to minimize pain.
- Minimally invasive procedures to address specific issues.
Get TMJ Pain Relief in Surf City, NC
You don’t have to let TMJ pain dictate your life; you are not alone, and relief is within reach. Call Surf City Dental at (910) 329-0298 to schedule a consultation appointment to see how we can help you.
Our experienced dentists and dental team are pleased to serve patients in all surrounding communities, including Topsail, Hampstead, Holly Ridge, and beyond.