TMD
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a common subgroup of Orofacial Pain Disorders often referred to as “TMJ”. TMJ is the abbreviation used for the temporomandibular joint. There are two basic types of TMD: Muscle generated pain and Jaw joint pain. Dr. Borquez can help you manage these conditions.
You may have one or more of the following symptoms:
• Pain or soreness around jaw joints
• Limited jaw movement or locking jaw
• Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
• Congestion or stiffness of the ears with or without pain
• Dizziness or ringing in the ear
• Facial pain or numbness
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Neck and/or shoulder pain
• Headaches: Tension Type Headaches (vice like of the head)
Causes of TMD:
• Trauma
• Jaw clenching , grinding (bruxism)
• Arthritis (inflammation of the joint)
• Oral habits (excessive gum chewing, nail biting, ice chewers)
• Stress and anxiety not directly linked, but can exacerbate the problem.
• In severe bite discrepancies there is some increase of TMD
Treatment for TMD: The practice philosophy of Dr. Borquez is a conservative,non-surgical approach of reversible treatment.
• Avoidance protocol (Soft diet, not clenching, stretching exercises etc.)
• Physical Therapy (PT referral or self educated)
• Medications (anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxants, joint steroid injections or trigger point injections, etc.)
• Nightguard (complete full arch coverage worn only at night)
• Other specialty referral; Neurologist, ENT, Psychologist etc.
I listen carefully, and think in a logical way to solve your problem in the simplest and most efficient way possible.
- Dr. Borquez
