TMD refers to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder – TMJ problems cause pain and discomfort for many people. The problem can develop from a number of issues, including stress. Developing TMJ problems can lead to difficult jaw movements, and regular discomfort. It can also lead to a habit of teeth grinding (though in some cases, teeth grinding can be the cause of TMD). If you fall into the habit of grinding your teeth, you could do serious damage, enough to leave you needing a dental crown. In some cases, failing to address the matter could lead to you losing a tooth to the harm caused by bruxism (the term for habitual teeth grinding).
Protect Your Jaw, Your Teeth, And Your Quality Of Life With TMJ Treatment
Taking quick action against TMD can help you avoid complications from the issue, including dental damage incurred through habitual teeth grinding. Your dentist can offer up treatment in the form of a special oral appliance. Worn during sleep, your TMJ appliance will reposition your jaw joints – the realignment can help you rest more comfortably.
Addressing Existing Damage
If prolonged jaw problems have led to damage from teeth grinding, your dentist can help. If it is needed, they can provide restorative dental work to protect damaged teeth, as some patients will suffer enough damage to call for a dental crown. Of course, not all damage puts a tooth in jeopardy. If you simply want to offset the effects of wear and tear, cosmetic dental work can be useful. A set of porcelain veneers can hide these damages, and provide you with lasting esthetic benefits.