The most frequently used joint in the human body isn't in your hips or elbows. Surprisingly, it's located just below and in front of each ear. These are your temporomandibular joints, and when they develop disorders, you might experience pain or discomfort that only a dentist can treat.

If you suffer from frequent headaches, earaches, or mysterious facial pain that seems to have no distinct cause, it's time to schedule an appointment with a dental professional you trust. In Ballwin, Missouri, that's 100 West Dental. TMJ & TMD treatment by 100 West Dental is a great way to find relief from the discomfort caused by TMD. 

What is TMD? 

TMD is an acronym for Temporomandibular Disorder. It refers to one or more problems that affect your temporomandibular joints -- the joints that act as a hinge for your lower jaw. It's this joint that allows your mouth to open and close. TMD can be caused by various factors, including:

• Arthritis
• Injury
• Trauma
• Connective tissue disorder
• Congenital dental anomaly

Some activities, such as nail-biting, teeth-grinding, or smoking, may worsen symptoms of TMD. Fortunately, TMJ medical treatment is readily available.

Who May Benefit From TMJ Disorder Treatment in Ballwin? 

Just about anyone who is old enough to talk can develop a TMD, simply because this joint is the one most commonly used. Simple dental problems, including malocclusion or grinding & clenching of teeth, can worsen the symptoms of TMD that may include:

• Jaw pain
• Oral pain
• Jaw click or pop
• All-over myofascial pain
• Headache
• Earache
• Sensitive teeth

If you've been trying to cope with symptoms like these without success, relief could be as easy as scheduling a consultation with your favorite dentist in Ballwin. With a few simple tests, such as examining your jaw, taking X-rays, or running a CT scan, your dental professional can quickly and easily diagnose a temporomandibular disorder and begin treatment immediately, bringing fast relief.

In many instances, TMJ surgery is not necessary, especially when there's early detection. That's why it's important to keep up with routine dental appointments and to address unusual pain or discomfort right away. 

How Does a General Dentist Treat TMD? 

Worried your regular dentist won't be able to treat your TMD? Because dentists are doctors, they're usually well-equipped to diagnose and treat temporomandibular disorders. Although in some situations, your dentist may refer you for orthodontic treatment in Ballwin. This is especially true if they feel your situation is better handled through TMJ surgery or another option. After all, your comfort takes top priority. 

Common treatments for TMD include:

• Medications such as muscle relaxers or pain relievers
• Oral appliances, such as nightguards
• Physical therapy
• Orthodontic treatment, such as dental implants
• Jaw surgery or reconstructive surgery
• TMJ microsurgery

When diagnosed early, TMD treatment is usually non-invasive. It may involve making simple changes to your lifestyle and diet. For example, your dentist may instruct you to eliminate hard or crunchy foods or to stop smoking. They may ask you to stop biting your nails or give you stress-management tips that help you avoid clenching or grinding your teeth. 

What Should You Expect At Your TMD Appointment?

At your TMD appointment, one of our highly skilled and professional dentists will meet with you to discuss your situation. They may gather information on your medical history, your family history, and any symptoms you're experiencing. There's a good chance you may need X-rays to help the dentist better understand what's happening with your TMJ. You may also undergo a brief examination of your mouth and jaw.

This helps the dentist determine whether everything is properly aligned. In some instances, the dentist may take impressions of your teeth. This is usually done using a digital scanner that provides immediate results. 

Once you've been treated for a temporomandibular (TMJ) disorder, you should feel an alleviation of your symptoms. Sometimes, this may occur in as little as one week. However, treatment may last for several weeks, up to several months, depending upon your particular situation. 

While TMD may recur after treatment, your dental professional will have follow-up instructions to help prevent this from happening. Often, TMD happens as a result of stress. By learning healthier methods for managing stress, you may help prevent future occurrences of TMD. For instance, if you're able to stop biting your nails or clenching your teeth, you may greatly decrease your risk of TMD, but everyone's diagnosis is different. Your dental professional is the best source of information when it comes to questions regarding this disorder. 

Is It Expensive to Treat TMD? 

The cost to diagnose and treat TMD varies among providers. Much also depends upon the severity of your condition. Surprisingly, it may be your medical insurance, and not your dental insurance, that covers at least a portion of the cost. This is because TMD is considered a medical condition that impacts your quality of life, making treatment medically necessary. Sometimes, your dental insurance may cover the cost of diagnosis, while your medical insurance covers a portion of the cost of treatment. 

It's best to speak with someone from your insurance carrier before you schedule your appointment, so you have a better idea of what to expect, financially. 

Why Choose TMJ & TMD Treatment by 100 West Dental?

There are so many reasons for choosing 100 West Dental as your choice for TMD treatment that we can't list them all. What's important to remember is that our patients are always our top priority. As such, we offer free virtual and in-person consultations and easy, online scheduling with same-day availability. We have several budget-friendly payment options, including the opportunity to finance treatment, and we've been voted Best Cosmetic Dentist by St. Louis Magazine.

If you need help with TMJ & TMD treatment in Ballwin, contact 100 West Dental today.