Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz, CA
Are you experiencing unexplained pains in your jaw joints? You could have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). For years, TMD has been treated by jaw surgery. Luckily, there is a non-surgical alternative! Treatment for TMD can be as comfortable and convenient as wearing a custom made orthotic.
TMD is a condition in which the jaw joints become stressed and painful, usually because of a misaligned bite, and missing teeth. Sometimes, clenching and grinding one’s teeth, also known as bruxism, can lead to TMD pain. Symptoms of TMD can range from mild to severe including pain in the teeth, jaw joints, face, head, or neck. Often, TMD sufferers have headaches or migraines because of their condition.
The nerves of the jaw and head are intimately connected, which is why even the slightest imbalance of the jaw can send pain radiating to the head, and neck. It is important to understand that TMD will not get better without treatment. In fact, it will continue to worsen the longer it is ignored.
The first step in treating TMD is the diagnosis. If you have been experiencing pain associated with TMD, consider an evaluation by a dentist. By using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, the dentist can determine your optimal bite and resting position for your jaw. Then, a custom-made orthotic can be crafted to help keep your jaw in this desirable position. If your TMD is because of missing teeth, reconstructing your bite may also be part of your treatment plan.
If you are ready to get your life back, and be free of your TMD, contact Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry today at (831) 438-4411 to schedule a consultation. If you have been recommended for TMD surgery, be sure to get a second opinion and explore non-surgical treatment options.
Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry serves patients located in the California communities of Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley, California.