TMJ/TMD in Tampa, FL

Stress is usually not a factor in most dental conditions, except for TMJ/TMD. TMJ, the temporomandibular joint, is the joint of the lower jaws. TMD, temporomandibular disorder, involves the muscles, connective tissues, as well as jaw joints. There are several causes of TMD, including those that our dentists in Tampa, FL, can treat successfully.

The Differences Between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ is simply the term for the jaw joints that sit in front of your ears, but it is also commonly used to refer to “TMJ disorder” or even TMD itself. TMD can involve those joints, but it may also include the muscles, ligaments, and other tissues attaching the lower jaws with the skull. There are several symptoms of TMD that you should know if moving your jaw is uncomfortable.

TMD Symptoms

Temporomandibular disorder affects twice the number of women than men and is more common in women from 20 to 40 years old. Some of the symptoms are:

• Discomfort of the ear or the surrounding area
• Ringing ears or tinnitus
• Facial discomfort
• Headaches, or aches in the neck or shoulder
• Tenderness of the jaw
• Muscles in the jaw may feel tired
• Not being able to open the jaw wide without discomfort
• The jaw locks in place

Our dental staff in Tampa, FL, will ask you several questions about the symptoms you have to diagnose the cause of your discomfort.

Causes of TMD

When you visit our dentists near you at Wang + Cortes Dental, we will not only treat the symptoms but also find their source. The various causes of TMJ/TMD in Tampa, FL include:

• Bruxism or teeth grinding
• Chronic clenching of the jaw
• Arthritis
• Disc movement between the joint socket and ball
• Stress

Stress can cause the facial and jaw muscles to tighten or clenching your teeth. Along with treating the medical or dental issues causing this disorder, many patients find that stress-relieving techniques help as well.

Diagnosing TMD

Since many other medical and dental issues may have similar symptoms, our dentists at Wang + Cortes Dental will examine your teeth, probe the jaw joints, and listen for clicking or popping sounds when your jaw moves. Once we know the cause of your disorder, we can suggest exercises to relieve discomfort or recommend that you see a doctor regarding arthritis or other medical causes.