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JAW joint disorders

Jaw and muscle pain, relief and treatment in Leicestershire

What are Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)?

TMD is a collective term used to describe a variety of conditions which affect the jaw (temporomandibular) joints and muscles that control the movement of the lower jaw. They are very common, with many people having some signs of a TMD but only a small number suffering pain or tenderness.

TMD Jaw Image
What causes Temporomandibular Disorders?

What causes Temporomandibular Disorders ?

  • Clenching the teeth together. This may be brought on when you are concentrating or extra busy, worried/stressed, annoyed or even in the cold
  • Grinding the teeth together. This often occurs in the night but can also be during the day
  • Overworking the muscles by constant chewing, e.g. chewing gum
  • Straining the joints and muscles by chewing pencils, biting nails, holding things in your mouth or holding the telephone between your neck and shoulder.

Other causes include arthritis of the jaw joints or trauma to the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, which can result in dislocation.

What problems may I experience?
  • Jaw pain or tenderness that may be worse either on waking or in the evening
  • Jaw pain when biting, chewing or yawning
  • Clicking from the jaw joint when moving your jaw
  • Stiffness or locking of the jaw joint
  • Earache without an infection
  • Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
  • Frequent headaches

These symptoms tend to come and go, often feeling worse during times of stress.

How are Temporomandibular Disorders treated?

There are many effective and simple treatments with studies showing that up to 90% of patients will get better with some self-care, exercises and the use of a customised splint (bite guard) to reduce the tension in the muscles that control the movement of the lower jaw. Occasionally physiotherapy, a course of medication or adjustment of the biting surfaces of the teeth may be of benefit. It is very rare that orthodontics or surgery is indicated for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders.

At RD Dental you will notice we examine your jaw joints and muscles as part of your comprehensive examination so that we can diagnose and address any problems early. If there are any problems you will be referred to our lead dentist, Ritesh Mody, who will be able to advise on the most appropriate treatment. Ritesh has a particular interest in temporomandibular disorders, having spent spent six months of his early career working and teaching at the Temporomandibular Clinic at Manchester Dental Hospital. As there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding temporomandibular disorders, Ritesh is often asked to see patients from Leicestershire and Warwickshire on a referral basis. If you require any further information or would like to arrange a consultation please contact us via phone or email.

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Our promise to you

Our team at RD dental will always endeavour to make your visits as comfortable as possible and we promise to treat every patient like family, providing high quality care. We will put your safety, trust and satisfaction at the forefront of all of our treatments.

What do our patients say?
  • “The most comprehensive examination and polish I have ever had."
    Mr. H - Leicester
  • "I felt so relaxed I fell asleep during my root canal treatment."
    Mrs. D - Leicestershire
  • "The best part of the treatment was that I did not feel the anaesthetic due to the numbing gel which was applied beforehand."
    Mr. J - Leicester
  • "I have never experienced service like it. Ritesh came in to see me on a Sunday as I lost the crown on my front tooth and then personally phoned me as a follow up. The team certainly deliver in their promise of treating patients as a member of their own family"
    Mrs. L - Leicester
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