TMD TreatmentCary, NC

TMD (temporomandibular disorder) can be a hindrance to the quality of your everyday life, causing discomfort in the jaw area. At Cary Towne Dental, we are devoted to helping you lead a life completely free of jaw tension, offering cutting-edge treatments designed to alleviate the symptoms of TMD in Cary, NC. 

Read on to understand more about this condition and how our personalized and compassionate care can restore your quality of life.

What Is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a critical, bilateral hinge and sliding joint that plays a central role in the basic and complex movements of the jaw. It’s considered one of the most complex joints in the body and consists of the temporal bone of the skull, the mandible (or the lower jaw), and a soft disc made of cartilage. This disc lies between the two bones, acting as a cushion and allowing the bones to move without friction. The joint enables various movements of the jaw, including vertical (opening and closing the mouth), horizontal (side to side), protrusive (pushing the jaw forward), and retrusive (pulling the jaw backward) movements.

What Is TMD?

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a term that encompasses a variety of conditions affecting the TMJ, the chewing muscles, and other associated structures. While the exact cause can be multifaceted, TMD often results from misalignment or trauma to the teeth or jaw, excessive teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching, arthritis within the TMJ, dislocation or erosion of the jaw joint, and stress.

Symptoms Of TMD

Symptoms of TMD can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning
• Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
• Popping or clicking sounds in the jaw
• Locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
• Headaches and neck pain

Risk Factors For Developing TMD

While the exact cause of TMD is often challenging to pinpoint, certain risk factors can contribute to or exacerbate the condition; these include the following:

• Arthritis in the TMJ
• Jaw injury or trauma
• Chronic grinding or clenching of teeth
• Structural jaw issues present since birth
• Stress, which can cause muscle tension and jaw clenching

Treatment For TMD

At Cary Towne Dental, our approach to treating TMD is rooted in a deep understanding of the nuances of the condition and the physiology of the jaw and surrounding muscles. The specialized treatment injections we offer are backed by extensive clinical research and have emerged as a promising solution for many patients suffering from TMD. The following is an overview of our diagnostic and treatment process.

Consultation & Examination
Every patient begins with a comprehensive consultation, where we evaluate the extent and nature of the TMD. This may include imaging studies and a series of questions to assess the joint’s condition and the surrounding structures.

Targeted Muscle Identification
TMD often results from an imbalance or overactivity in certain jaw muscles. Through careful examination and palpation, we identify the specific muscles contributing most significantly to the patient’s symptoms.

Injection Procedure
Once the problematic muscles are identified, we administer an injection directly into these areas. This substance is designed to relax hyperactive muscles, effectively decreasing tension and strain on the TMJ. By relaxing these tissues , the treatment minimizes the excessive pressure exerted on the joint, alleviating discomfort and improving jaw function. This procedure is performed with the utmost precision, ensuring minimal discomfort and optimal results.

Post-Treatment Care
After the treatment, patients might experience slight tenderness at the injection site, which typically subsides within a day or two. We provide guidance on post-treatment care to ensure patients receive the greatest benefit from the procedure.