TMJ vs. TMD: What’s the Difference?
The Jaw: TMJ
This month, we're diving into a topic that affects many people but is of
First, let’s clarify a common misconception. The terten misunderstood—jaw pain. Recently, we had the opportunity to attend a course on TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction) in St. Louis, where we gained valuable insights into how jaw issues develop and, more importantly, how we can help manage them.
TMJ vs. TMD: What’s the Difference?m "TMJ" actually refers to the joint itself—the temporomandibular joint. Everyone has two of these joints, located just in front of each ear, connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. The term "TMD" (temporomandibular dysfunction) describes conditions that cause pain, limited movement, and other issues with this joint.
The TMJ is responsible for many essential functions, from opening and closing the mouth to allowing us to chew. When we eat, the mandible unseats and moves forward, creating the motion needed for chewing. But when there's a dysfunction in the TMJ, it can affect this entire process, leading to discomfort and challenges with basic movements.
Most people associate TMD with dental problems, but there’s more to it than just teeth. During the course, we learned from a dentist who emphasized that the TMJ is a joint, and like other joints in the body, it often benefits from a team approach to treatment. That's where chiropractors come in.
Chiropractors are experts in joint mechanics and movement, so we play a key role in assessing and addressing TMD. Our approach involves examining how the jaw functions within the larger context of your body’s movement and alignment. This helps us understand what might be contributing to the dysfunction and how to best support the healing process.
What You Can Expect From Us
In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more details about TMD assessments and treatment options. Our primary goal is to identify the root cause of the dysfunction and create a plan that helps restore proper movement and relieve pain.
Key steps in our approach include:
Assessment: Understanding how the jaw joint moves and identifying areas of dysfunction.
Treatment: Collaborating with dental professionals as needed and applying therapies that promote optimal movement and alignment in the jaw.
Customized Care: Tailoring treatment to your specific needs for long-term relief.
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, remember that you’re not alone, and there are solutions available. Chiropractors are uniquely equipped to support the health of the TMJ, so if TMJ is causing you discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re excited to bring you more insights and help you achieve a pain-free jaw!