TMJ-TMD Prevention and Treatment in San Antonio, TX

TMJ-TMD

TMD stands for Temporomandibular Dysfunction. It means that something is not working correctly with the jaw joint or the associated muscles. This “not working right” could be pain, limitation to movement, stress headaches from clenching, neck pain, ringing in the ears, clicking of the jaw joint, or having to move the jaw laterally to open wide.

Dr. Raimondo has treated patients with TMD for more than 40 years. Our conservative approach to alleviating TMD pain starts with the most non-invasive, simple treatment, and can progress to more complex solutions if needed. This means that you’ll only receive the care you need without being over-treated.

Symptoms of TMD include:

• Pain in the jaw area

• Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears

• Frequent headaches or neck aches

• Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves

• Swelling on the sides of the face

• Muscle spasms in the jaw area

• A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth

• Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth

Treating TMD in San Antonio, TX

Treating TMD problems takes time and there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Usually, if the symptoms are relatively new, we will recommend that you take a specific regimen of NSAIDs and soft diet. If the symptoms do not resolve, we will fabricate a night guard to help prevent the effects of night-time bruxism/clenching. If, after about six weeks, your symptoms are not greatly improved, we will enlist the help of a specialist dentist who treats TMD problems more aggressively. About 60-70% of the time, this extra step is not necessary.

Treatment time is variable. Unlike repairing an automobile, people all do not heal or recover at the same rate. Most treatments conclude after a period of time, but will still need to be monitored at regular checkup appointments with our San Antonio dentist, Dr. Raimondo.