Are Your Teeth Causing Your Pain?

Do you have recurring headaches in the morning when you wake up? Do you hear popping or clicking sounds when you chew? Is it painful to open your mouth wide, or has your mouth ever locked in a particular position? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your teeth may actually be causing you pain. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are problems with the jaw and the muscles in the face that control the temporomandibular joint. This joint is a hinge that connects the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull so that the mouth can open, close, chew, speak, and move side to side. While it is not always easy to diagnose what causes TMD, the entire dental staff at Green Dental of Alexandria are here to serve any of our patients with temporomandibular pain with state of the art, environmentally conscious, and personalized dental care.

For most people who suffer from TMD, they find that their symptoms are intermittent – coming and going without warning. Because of this, stress is often a common factor in TMD. Because many people tend to grind their teeth at night or clench their jaws during the day when they are stressed, TMD is often a result. At home treatments of eating soft foods, using a hot or cold compress, over the counter pain relievers, and wearing a splint or night guard in the mouth are often the most common suggestions for relieving pain. If your pain is not lessened by these simple changes, we can look deeper into finding permanent relief.

If you are suffering from pain in your jaw, morning headaches, or if you hear a clicking sound when you open your mouth, please contact Green Dental of Alexandria today. Our practice is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy and fully functioning smile. We are currently accepting new patients and would welcome the opportunity to serve you and your family.