TMJ vs. TMD
TMJ and TMD are often used synonymously, but they actually mean two different things. TMJ stand for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the joint connecting your lower jaw to your skull just in front of the ear. When you open and close your mouth you can feel this joint moving by placing your hands just in front of your ears.
TMD stand for Temporomandibular Dysfunction, or simply any pain or issue associated with the TMJ that causes you to not be able to function. TMD is sometimes used as a catch-all diagnosis without going to the root of what is causing the pain. In our office Dr. Wheeler focuses on treating the cause of the TMD issues rather than masking the pain with drugs or other delaying tactics. We use simple, non-invasive methods that relieve pressure on the joint and allow healing to occur.
TMD Solutions
Oral Appliance Therapy for TMJ
Regardless of the cause, most TMD issues are focused on a common issue, too much pressure on the joint. Imagine that you sprained your knee or ankle playing a sport. The diagnosis would be simple, but it in a supportive splint for a while, take it easy, don’t put too much pressure on it and let it heal. The TMJ is the same, however, it’s much harder to take a break from using your mouth than it is from using your knee or ankle.
Because it’s difficult most patients will push through the pain, ignoring it for years and years until they eventually come and see us. We then will go through an in-depth evaluation to understand the severity of your symptoms and provide a treatment plan that will allow the joint to heal and relieve pain and pressure. Our treatment is simple, using oral appliances we can take the pressure off your jaw and promote healing.
For more information about TMJ treatment, give out office a call!