TMJ, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, TMD. Evaluation & Treatment by Dentist at Yardley Dental Care, Yardley PA

TMJ, actually, temporomandibular joint, is a like a hinge joining your jaw to the temporal bones of your cranium., These "hinges" are located toward the front of your two ears.The function of the TMJ is to allow movement of your Jaw. The TMJ allows you to speak, to yawn and to chew your food.

Dr. Kenwood, your dentist at Yardley Dental Care, can evaluate issues with your jaw and the muscles. Problems with these muscles in your face that control your jaw are known as temporomandibular disorders and are commonly known as TMD. Many people mistakenly refer to the TMD disorder as TMJ, names from the actual join.

Causes TMD Disorders (TMJ)

Dentists believe that symptoms of TMD/TMJ stem from issues that originate with the joint or muscles of your jaw, but there is no known definitive cause at this time. Damage or an injury inflicted to your jaw, the joint itself, or the muscles of your head and neck can cause TMJ/TMD.

It is believed that possiable causes of TMJ/TMD and may arise due to:

• Arthritis in the joint
• Grinding of teeth, undue pressure on the joint, also associated with teeth clenching
• Stress, causing tightening if the muscles in the face, head and jaw
• Movement of the disc or soft cushion that lies in between the ball and socket of the joint

Yardley Dental care may suggest different treatments that can alleviate the pain caused by TMJ/TMD.Dr. Kenwood may also order imaging of the jaw to assist in the diagnosis of potential TMJ/TMD.

Live near or in the Yardley Pennsylvania area? Yardley Dental care can help you with pain associated with TMJ/TMD, call our dental office at 215 493-1616 today to schedule a consultation. with our PA dentists.