[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1663012832028{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668613511081{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]Do you find yourself frequently experiencing discomfort in your jaw and face? Do you often find it difficult to fully open your mouth when eating, and do you have a difficult time chewing your food properly? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms related to a common condition called temporomandibular joint disorder, also referred to as TMD. This condition leaves patients with chronic issues that affect the muscles of the face and the temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge that connects the jaw to the skull. You can feel this joint when you touch the back of the jaw, near your ear, and open and close your mouth.
Symptoms of TMD
TMD patients are often misdiagnosed because many of the common symptoms may be the same as other conditions. Patients often visit a different medical practitioner looking for a diagnosis and are confused when they don’t get relief from their symptoms. TMD symptoms can include:
- Headaches or neck or shoulder pain
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Jaw discomfort or pain
- Locked jaw
- Teeth grinding
- Discomfort or ringing of the ears
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
Importance of Receiving Treatment
There are many people living with TMD that haven’t received a proper diagnosis and, therefore, are not receiving treatment. Unfortunately, TMD is a condition that will progress and continue to affect your quality of life. Many patients who live with TMD are in a constant state of discomfort. Patients also mention experiencing difficulty opening their mouths to bite and chew food. It is not uncommon for TMD sufferers to switch to a soft food diet.
If you or a loved one are suffering from one or more of the symptoms above and are located in the Northridge, CA area, contact our office to learn more about how we can help improve your quality of life. We look forward to hearing from you soon![/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:%2Frequest-an-appointment%2F|title:Request%20an%20Appointment” size=”medium”]Request an Appointment[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]