The term temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is often used to describe some problems that occur with the TMJ joint (temporomandibular joint). This also includes the other structures that connect to the joint such as muscles, nerves, and chewing structures.
Patients often ask what causes TMD or TMJ? It is a complex answer in that it can be related to:
1) Dental changes
-loss or wear of teeth
-chewing on one side
-grinding or clenching
-orthodontics
2) Mouthbreathing
3) Trauma
On top of this, TMJ causes a wide range of symptoms that quite often go undiagnosed medically and can range from pain in the joint, earaches, neckaches, popping or clicking of the TMJ joint, difficulty in opening, to tiredness when chewing and can sometimes even be the cause of migraine headaches. Interestingly, TMJ issues can also affect your facial esthetics. Many times, these issues can be treated by neuromuscular dentists non-surgically.
If you have any questions regarding Houston TMJ or TMJ treatment, please feel free to contact our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF 713-668-2289.
