TMD Therapy

TMD Therapy

TMD, or Temporomandibular disorders to give them their full name, are an oral health issue that affects the temporomandibular joint as well as the jaw muscles and various other parts of the face, particularly the nerves. If you start to experience jaw pain or even unusual sensations in the jaw area that you have never noticed before, you could have TMD. This is especially likely if the pain is at its worst when you open and close your jaws. At Centennial Periodontics & Implants in Centennial, CO we offer our patients TMD Therapy.

What are the main symptoms of TMD?

If you have TMD, there are a number of symptoms that you could experience, ut you do not have to experience them all to be diagnosed with Temporomandibular disorders, so if you note any of the following, please do get in touch with one of our experienced dentists in Centennial, Colorado:

  • Jaw pain
  • Unusual sensations in the jaw
  • Eye and/or ear pain
  • Headaches
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Difficulties with opening and/or closing your jaws
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Clicking jaw
  • Facial numbness
  • Changes to your bite

What is TMD therapy?

TMD therapy is basically anything that you do, or are instructed to do by your dentist in Centennial, Colorado to ease the symptoms of TMD and hopefully cure the disorder completely.

When you visit your dentist, they will check your teeth and gums carefully before diagnosing TMD. If you are diagnosed, they will then suggest a number of therapeutic practices including jaw relaxation techniques, hot and cold compresses to help relax the muscles, and maybe even some simple exercises that will help to alleviate the symptoms.

Often, your dentist will also suggest that you use clear corrective aligners to reduce the amount of stress that your misaligned teeth are placing on your temporomandibular joint. This is usually the most effective way of dealing with TMD when used in conjunction with some of the TMD therapy techniques listed above. However, your dentist will be able to advise you about the best treatments in your specific case.

Do you need TMD therapy?

If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or numbness in your jaw area, you should make an appointment with one of our dentists in Centennial, Colorado as soon as possible. If we determine that you have TMD, then it is advisable that you start a tailored plan of TMD therapy, which we will put together for you, as soon as possible.

How soon will TMD Therapy provide relief?

TMD therapy in the form of compresses and muscle relaxation exercises can provide almost instant relief on a temporary basis, but long-term relief may take a little longer. If you use corrective aligners, you can expect them to start working within as little as 2 weeks, but it may take several weeks or months for the problem to resolve itself completely.