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164 North Main Street | Natick, MA 01760 | 508.653.6263

Learn About
TMJ & TMD

Learn About
TMJ & TMD

TMJ & TMD Treatment

The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull. This joint, often referred to as the TM joint or TMJ, operates as part of a complex system of bones, discs, muscles, and ligaments that work together to allow your mouth to move up and down and side to side when you chew and speak.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) describes a number of conditions that can prevent the TM joint from functioning properly. TMD can cause symptoms such as clicking or popping of the joint, difficulty chewing, jaws that get “stuck” in one position, headaches, and/or severe pain and discomfort. TMD is most common among women of childbearing age.

Causes of TMD:

  • Arthritis in the jaw joint
  • Injury to the jaw, head, or neck
  • Dislocation of the disc that cushions the TM joint
  • Tooth grinding or clenching
  • Improper bite (malocclusion)
  • Stress


Since many conditions can cause symptoms that mimic TMD, an accurate diagnosis is important. When TMD is suspected, your dentist will review your medical history and conduct a thorough clinical examination that includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving. Your dentist will take specialized X-rays of your TM joints and may make a mold (cast) of your teeth to see how your bite fits together.

Treatment for TMJ disorders can range from self-care practices and other conservative, non-invasive therapies to injections and, in severe cases, surgery. A step-by-step treatment approach is usually recommended because non-invasive therapies are often effective at relieving the symptoms of TMD.

Skill and experience on the part of the dentist are critical for the proper diagnosis and treatment of TMD. At Natick Dental Health, we are committed to providing relief from the pain and discomfort of this disorder so you can get back to life as usual.

Feel free to contact us at our Natick dental office today with any questions about TMJ/TMD treatment or to schedule an appointment.

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Location

164 North Main Street
Natick, MA 01760

Hours

Mon - Fri 8AM to 4PM

Directions

Our Office is conveniently
located in Natick, MA.

Terms and Conditions

Here at Natick Dental Health, we work diligently to protect our patient's rights and privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what HIPAA has identified as electronically protected information (ePHI). Unfortunately, despite the best efforts we make or take, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the box, and electronically making an appointment, you understand that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Natick Dental Health will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may not illegally intercept this communication. As a result of continuing, you are sending this transmission and accepting the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. As an alternative, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

Disclaimer

The information presented here is not intended or implied to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should be used for informational purposes only.

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