What is TMD?
Temporomandibular Disease (TMD) is a painful inflammation of
the temporomandibular joint in the jaw which causes several painful conditions
to occur. Some of the symptoms of TMD include pain in the jaw muscles and jaw
bone while chewing food, the jaw locking up, limited ability to move the jaw in
a normal way, and a grinding or clicking sound when movement does occur. It can
be caused by an injury to the jaw, and sometimes, stress.
Diagnosing TMD
To achieve a TMD diagnosis, the patient must undergo some
testing. One of the tests available is a CBCT, or Cone Beam Computed
Topography. Dentists and radiologists must go through CBCT education classes
because the CBCT testing has higher levels of radiation than other tests do.
CBCT education classes go over all of the risks involved, and ways to reduce
the risks. They also discuss how to read the CBCT test results and what
abnormalities to look for. Other tests to achieve a TMD diagnosis or a CT scan
and MRI, which are often just as accurate as the CBCT.
Treatment Options
Sometimes, TMD resolves itself with no treatment, and the
pain diminishes with time. However, if it doesn't get better, there are
treatment options available to reduce the patient's discomfort. A doctor or
dentist might recommend the patient avoid chewing gum and switch to a strictly
soft food diet. Gentle treatments like acupuncture, steroid injections, and
splints can be done. As a last result, the patient might receive a
recommendation for surgery. The effects of surgery are not reversible, so this
option is usually avoided if at all possible.
For more info about CBCT education and TMD Diagnosis so please visit my
website.
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