Temporomandibular disorder treatment in North Port, Port Charlotte & Punta Gorda
Millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as severe, recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, also known as TMD.
Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jawbone to your skull. These joints get a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.
Symptoms of TMD include:
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule a free consultation with our orthodontist in North Port, Port Charlotte or Punta Gorda. Dr. Whitesides can help determine if you have TMD and create a customized treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms.
Pain in the jaw area
Muscle spasms in the jaw area
Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth
Frequent headaches or neck aches
Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
Not all jaw pain is associated with TMD.
If you feel you might have TMD, seeing an orthodontist near you and receiving an exam is always important. However, not all jaw pain is associated with TMD, and if you do not have TMD there are many different preventive steps to maintain a healthy, strong smile.
- Relax your face — “Lips together, teeth apart”
- Avoid grinding your teeth
- Avoid all gum-chewing
- Don’t cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder — either use a headset or hold the receiver to your ear
- Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
- Do not sit with your chin resting on your hand
- Practice good posture — keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared
Many people get TMD without ever having braces. Symptoms usually wax and wane regardless of whether braces are worn. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and are concerned that you’re a candidate for TMD treatment, please schedule a free consultation with us in North Port, Port Charlotte or Punta Gorda today!