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Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
(TMD, often called TMJ)
Note: TMD is covered under your medical insurance in New Mexico. It is usually not covered by dental insurance. If you have TMD, we will need your medical insurance ID.
Temporomandibular joint problems, sometimes called TMJ, affect females and males in all age groups. It can range from a mild, infrequent click in the jaw joint, to limited movement and difficulty chewing, to frequent headaches, to severe constant pain. It can involve the TM joints, the jaw muscles, or both. It can cause pain in the teeth, the neck and shoulders, and even into the arms.
TMD is often caused by whiplash accidents, and can be caused by trauma to the lower jaw or to the chin. It can also be caused by frequent grinding and clenching of the teeth. If you have had a recent trauma to your head, neck, or jaw, (especially if you feel that your bite has changed), you should be evaluated as soon as possible for damage to the temporomandibular joints.
You can sometimes overcome TMD by simple things you can do by yourself without professional help. Ice packs on the affected area can help, as can anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Motrin, etc). Some people are helped by herbal supplements. Try to avoid stressful situations, don't chew gum or chewy foods. Keep your teeth from touching. Bagels and steak are examples of foods that can aggravate TMD. (The cookbook below has 200 soft and tasty recipes. It was written by a man whose wife was suffering from TMJ pain, had surgery, and had to eat a soft diet for six months.) Try to yawn without opening too wide, by supporting your chin with your hand. Do not sleep on your stomach. If you are able to relieve your symptoms by taking these steps, continue to use your jaw muscles moderately. If you are unable to relieve TMD by yourself, you should seek professional help.
There are both signs and symptoms of TMD. Symptoms are what you feel, but it is possible to have TMD without symptoms. Signs of TMD may cause no discomfort at all. These signs include worn and cracked teeth as well as limited jaw motion. TMD can cause breakdown of your teeth and gums without ever causing pain.
After a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, the history of your problem, physical findings, and necessary X-rays, Dr. Wartell will determine your diagnosis and discuss his findings with you. If you have TMD, there are usually different options that can be used to help you. You will participate in choosing the best treatment for your problem. The choices may include a removable bite appliance, physical therapy referral, medications, relaxation techniques, bite adjustment, or referral to a medical specialist. As a last resort, very few patients must be referred for TMJ surgery. Sometimes, tooth or gum problems can masquerade as TMD. Accordingly, Dr. Wartell cannot diagnose your problem without a personal evaluation.
Dr. Wartell continually updates his knowledge about diagnosing and treating TMD by frequently attending conferences and seminars from eminent teachers and practioners such as Mark Piper, MD, DMD; Peter Dawson, DDS; Frank Spear, DDS, MSD; Dr. Wartell is a member of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, which is committed to the relief of all craniofacial pain and dysfunction (including TMD), and the advancement of research and study in this field. He is a student in the Mini-Residency Program of the AACP, which leads toward a Fellowship in the organization. He is also a member of the American Equilibration Society, and attends their annual conference for the latest updates in the diagnosis and treatment of occlusal and temporomandibular disease. Dr. Wartell is a member of the American Association of Pain Management, which helps desseminate the latest research findings in pain management through publications and congerences.
The pain of TMD can usually be controlled, but the longer you have had the problem, the longer it may take to get relief. Call us for a comprehensive evaluation or second opinion. We'll have you in as soon as possible to discuss your problem, evaluate it, and discuss recommendations for therapy.
Dr. Wartell has had some patients with TMD that he has not been able to help. Medical and psychological problems contribute to TMD. These problems must be treated along with TMD treatment to reduce your pain and dysfunction. You may be referred to your physician, to a chiropracter, physical therapist, massage therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist to aid in your care. Dr. Wartell evaluates you in a truly holistic manner, recognizing that your entire body must be well for its parts to be well.
Patients who completely follow treatment recommendations experience better results than those who do not. If you will not follow our recommendations, including when and how often to use our removable dental splints, you should not make make an appointment here.
Treatment results cannot be guaranteed.
We enjoy answering your questions.
For more information, please call us at 505-474-4644
Center For Dental Medicine • 2019 Galisteo St. • J2 • Santa Fe, NM 87505
(Behind Los Alamos National Bank, St. Michael's & Galisteo) Map
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