TMD

TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) occurs when there is a problem with the system of muscles and bones that connect your upper and lower jaw. It causes a variety of painful symptoms that can really disrupt your life. While the cause of TMD may not always be easy to pinpoint, there are treatments that can ease your discomfort and restore the proper function of your jaw.

TMD

TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) occurs when there is a problem with the system of muscles and bones that connect your upper and lower jaw. It causes a variety of painful symptoms that can really disrupt your life. While the cause of TMD may not always be easy to pinpoint, there are treatments that can ease your discomfort and restore the proper function of your jaw.

TMD

TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) occurs when there is a problem with the system of muscles and bones that connect your upper and lower jaw. It causes a variety of painful symptoms that can really disrupt your life. While the cause of TMD may not always be easy to pinpoint, there are treatments that can ease your discomfort and restore the proper function of your jaw.

What to know about TMD

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is just below and in front of your ear on either side of your face. This joint connects your lower jaw to your upper jaw and gives it movement. Without your two TMJs, it wouldn’t be possible to open your mouth to speak or eat. This alone makes the temporomandibular joint pretty important.

When there is a problem with the TMJ, it can become painful and uncomfortable to open your mouth wide, chew, yawn, speak, or sing. Additionally, opening your mouth wide may cause your jaw to click and pop or even lock up. You might experience facial pain and swelling, headaches, earaches, shoulder and neck pain. Sometimes symptoms appear in other parts of your body that often get misdiagnosed , such as dizziness and numbness or tingling in your fingers, because doctors don’t often associate these things with TMD.

In other words… TMD can be a real pain!

What Causes TMD?

The exact cause of TMD may not be easy to identify in every patient because it can stem from any number of biological, physical, environmental, and behavioral factors. One thing that is clear — stress is a major contributing factor in exacerbating TMD. If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night, for instance, you may experience worsening TMD related pain and discomfort, including headaches, jaw pain, facial swelling and sensitive teeth. Your habits can also contribute to your TMD pain. For example, if you chew on your pen or bite your nails, if you love crunching on ice, if you tend to shift your jaw to one side, you might be making your TMD worse.

TMD SYMPTOMS:

The #1 symptom is PAIN — jaw, neck, temple, and facial pain, headaches, earaches
Other common symptoms include:

  • Jaw clicking and popping
  • Jaw locking up temporarily
  • Jaw stiffness (especially in the morning)
  • Limited range of motion
  • Sensitive or brittle teeth
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers

How We Treat TMD

Because TMD is a complex condition, there is no single treatment that works for every patient. At Kewaskum Family Dentistry, we are experts at diagnosing TMD and developing treatment plans personalized for each patient’s particular case. Treatment may be as simple as managing certain harmful behaviors and learning relaxation techniques to help with stress. In some cases, orthodontic treatment can help relieve symptoms, while in others, an oral appliance or mouthguard may be more appropriate. However, there is no way to know which treatment combination will work for you if you don’t seek help.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP…

The first step in treating your TMD is scheduling an appointment in our office. Dr. Klasinski will meet with you to learn about your symptoms and do a thorough examination. Once she has a clear picture of your particular case, she will talk about your treatment options so you can start getting relief as soon as possible.

Don’t let the pain of TMD keep you from enjoying life to the fullest. Call our office today to schedule your consultation.

TMD FACTS:

TMD is twice as common in women than in men, affecting women 35-44 more than any other group

Why Our Membership Plan Might Be Right For You

No dental insurance? Children and adults can still receive the same great dental care with our membership plan.

  • Yearly membership plan to cover routine cleanings and exams and even emergency visits
  • Save money and receive the dental care you deserve
  • Payment options available

Why Our Membership Plan Might Be Right For You

No dental insurance? Children and adults can still receive the same great dental care with our membership plan.

  • Yearly membership plan to cover routine cleanings and exams and even emergency visits
  • Save money and receive the dental care you deserve
  • Payment options available

Why Our Membership Plan Might Be Right For You

No dental insurance? Children and adults can still receive the same great dental care with our membership plan.

  • Yearly membership plan to cover routine cleanings and exams and even emergency visits
  • Save money and receive the dental care you deserve
  • Payment options available

My son had his two front top teeth knocked out at baseball practice, Kewaskum Family Dental's staff were more than accommodating & took excellent care of my child. The dentists couldn't have done a better job, they did excellent work. They even sqeezed my son into an already tight schedule, so he'd have his crowns in place just in time for senior pictures. Thank you everyone for being the amazing people i've known you to be over the years, you are the best!
Tracy
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Took my mom for a consultation, she was very impressed with Dr. Sara’s honesty and professionalism.
Penny Leinbeck
1686265787
My new crown feels great!
Jon Herdrich
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Very nice and easy to talk to. Everyone in the clinic makes scheduling a breeze! Definitely a great team to see!
Jamie McCorkle
1685550337
Concern and support is far beyond any we’ve ever received at a dentist. Thanks Dr. Sara and team!
Brianne Grota
1685488440
Dr Nick was very gentle and Lorraine was amazing at keeping me comfortable. Highly recommend Kewaskum Family Dentistry.
Jenny Kober
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Very friendly. The staff -and Gibb- have a genuine way of relaxing a patient.
Dean Lasky
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First time back at a dentist in a very long. Wonderful people very friendly not scared to go back.
Laura Klemme
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Had two fillings today by Dr. Klasinski. Excellent, painless work! Bonus was petting Gibb! I would highly recommend Kewaskum Family Dentistry!
Robin Mock
1684889233
Our family is truly blessed to have connected years ago with the dental staff at Kewaskum Family Dentistry. Both Dr. Sara and Dr. Nick are very qualified and personally stay informed of new advances in dental care. The staff is always super friendly and helpful and the comfort dog Gibbs is a definite game changer!
Cheryl Cheryl
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