Potential risk factors associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Researchers have identified potential risk factors for temporomandibular joint disorders, referred to as TMD.  The study presented in the NYSDA News pointed out that individuals with symptoms such as:

• Pain in the chewing muscles or jaw joint
• Pain in the neck, jaw and face
• Stiff jaw muscles
• A jaw that locks or has limited movement
• Painful clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint
• Changes in the fit between upper and lower teeth
• Notches at the gumline on more than one tooth

• Excessive wear to teeth

Temporomandibular disorders are estimated to affect more than 10 million Americans; women more so than men, according to the National Institutes of Health.  If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above you should ask your health care professional more about the problem or ask for a referral to someone that does manage TMJ disorders (TMD).

At Aesthetic Dental Designs® we have extensive training on handling the various types of TMD.  Dr Todd Snyder, DDS completed an extensive 17 month training program on occlusion and TMJ disorders at the prestigious FACE Institute in Burlingame, CA.