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Advanced TMJ and TMD Treatment in Temecula Valley and Fallbrook
TMD (temporomandibular joint) disorders are a family of problems related to your complex jaw joint. If you have had symptoms like pain or a “clicking and poping” sound, you’ll be glad to know that these problems are more easily diagnosed and treated than they were in the past. Since some types of TMD problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important.
No one treatment can resolve all TMD disorders completely and treatment takes time to be effective. Dr. Krakowiak can help you have a healthier and more comfortable jaw if choosing either a non-surgical or surgical approach to your problems.
Trouble with Your Jaw?
TMD disorders develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. Or, you may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking or grating noises when you open your mouth, or trouble opening your mouth wide.
Do You Have a TMD Disorder?
- How do you know if you may have a TMD disorder?
- Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
- Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
- Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
- Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
- Does stress make your clenching worse?
- Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
- Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat or yawn?
- Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaws?
- Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other joints?
- Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
- Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
- Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
- Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or worn?
The more times you answered “yes,” the more likely it is that you have a TMD disorder. Understanding TMD disorders will also help you understand how they’re treated.
Symptoms of TMD Disorders
TMD disorders can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, affecting your daily life.
Common Symptoms
- Jaw pain
- Tightness
- Popping/Clicking Sounds
- Difficulty Chewing
- Headaches
- Neck Pain
Causes and Risk Factors
TMD disorders are often linked to jaw clenching, teeth grinding, stress, arthritis, and misaligned bites.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early intervention through thorough medical evaluations and imaging (CT or MRI) prevents worsening symptoms, making treatment more effective.
Treatment
There are various treatment options that Dr. Krakowiak can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMD disorder, Dr. Krakowiak will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care as well as professional care.
Our Procedure
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We start by assessing your symptoms and reviewing your medical history to understand your TMD issues.
Step 2: Comprehensive Exam
We perform a thorough examination, including jaw movement evaluation and checking for any clicking or popping sounds.
Step 3: Diagnostic Imaging
If needed, we use X-rays or other imaging techniques to get a clearer view of your TMD structure.
Step 4: Customized Treatment Plan
We develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication, physical therapy, surgical interventions, or bite splints.
Step 5: Treatment Implementation
We begin your treatment, guiding you through exercises, therapies, or using prescribed devices for jaw relief.
Step 6: Follow-Up Care
We monitor your progress with follow-up appointments to ensure improvement and adjust the treatment as necessary.
Take the first step toward lasting TMD relief—reach out to us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What treatments are available for TMD?
Treatments include medications, physical therapy, bite splints, or in severe cases, surgery.
Will I need surgery for TMD?
Surgery is usually a last resort if other treatments don’t help.
Can TMD disorders go away on their own?
Some mild cases may improve with time, but treatment is often needed for relief.
How long does TMD treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the severity of your condition and how you respond to therapy.
What foods should I avoid with TMD?
Avoid hard, chewy foods like nuts, gum, and tough meats to reduce jaw strain.
Top-rated Oral Surgeons with Offices in Temecula Valley and Fallbrook
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Other Questions? We are all here to help and serve your hollistic health needs.
Our caring team and our dedicated doctors are always ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have. We will as a courtesy to you reach out to your insurance and ask them to verify your coverage. We also will coordinate communications with your other aligned providers to help you get the care you need. All our staff is dedicated to ensuring "that you not only have" the best surgical outcome but also the best experience possible.
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Murrieta
Fallbrook
