Because the TMD is a highly complex joint and is the most unstable joint in the body, many people suffer from TMD and the different problems that arise. It is one of the most common conditions we treat in Rochester.
Problems with your TMD can develop from trauma, such as sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, dental procedures, or even a deep yawn. On other occasions, it originates from clenching, teeth grinding, nail biting, and stress.
With the increasing stress of everyday life, most people are unaware that they clench their jaw and grind their teeth. Over time, this can lead to TMJ pain and dysfunction. Consistent grinding and clenching cause the muscles surrounding the jaw and head to tighten up and become painful. Due to the joint's anatomy, this can become a 'vice-grip' around your head, causing frequent headaches and jaw pain.
Problems with your TMD can develop from trauma, such as sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, dental procedures, or even a deep yawn. On other occasions, it originates from clenching, teeth grinding, nail biting, and stress.
With the increasing stress of everyday life, most people are unaware that they clench their jaw and grind their teeth. Over time, this can lead to TMD pain and dysfunction. Consistent grinding and clenching cause the muscles surrounding the jaw and head to tighten up and become painful. Due to the joint's anatomy, this can become a 'vice-grip' around your head, causing frequent headaches and jaw pain.
Symptoms of TMD can include:
Depending on the cause of your TMD, treatment will often consist of the following:
When the initial injury to the TMD is non-traumatic and comes on gradually, conservative care has excellent results.
Two of the main muscles that close your mouth are known as the masseter and temporalis. You can feel these muscles just down in front of your ears, under the cheekbone, and on the side of your head by your temples.
When you clench, you are effectively contracting these muscles. When you clench for long periods or overnight when you sleep, you hold these muscles in a contracted state for lengthy amounts of time. Could you imagine holding a bicep curl all day? Your arm would be sore!
These muscles wrapping around your head can create a 'vice-grip' leading to frequent headaches and jaw pain, especially in the mornings, after long days, or after stressful periods.
With muscle relaxation techniques and stretches, these muscles can loosen up, resulting in fewer headaches and tension.
