TMJ Dentist in Missouri City
Dr. Carlos A. Alonso, DDS
Temporomandibular joint disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint and the surrounding tissues become inflamed. TMD can cause pain, discomfort, and a variety of other symptoms. People who are experiencing the symptoms of TMD should seek general dentistry in Sugar Land at Alonso Family Dental.
What is temporomandibular joint disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint that acts like a hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. You have a temporomandibular joint on both sides of your jaw. When the joint becomes inflamed, it can cause multiple symptoms, including the following:
- Pain or stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back
- Headaches
- Pain behind the eyes or in the face
- Jaw that pops or clicks
- Dizziness
- Locked jaw
- Tender scalp
- Trouble closing the teeth together
- Difficulty swallowing
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Tongue, check, or gum pain
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Sensitive or loosened teeth
- Pain when chewing
Soreness of the jaw Watch this video to learn more about TMJ .
If you’d like to speak with Dr. Alonso contact us today!
(281) 778-8400
What are the causes of TMD?
It can be difficult to determine what has caused TMD to develop. Some people may develop TMD because of a combination of factors such as a jaw injury, arthritis, or genetics. People who grind their teeth may also develop TMD.
Diagnosis and treatment
If you are experiencing the symptoms of TMD, you should seek general dentistry in Sugar Land at Alonso Family Dental. Your dentist may examine your jaw and feel around it to check its movement. Your dentist may use dental x-rays or send you for a CT scan or MRI so that he can identify issues with your temporomandibular joint and the surrounding muscles and ligaments.
If you are diagnosed with TMD, your dentist will then discuss treatment options with you. You may be prescribed anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants. Your dentist may recommend nondrug treatments such as the following:
- Oral splints
- Physical therapy
- Education
If other treatments are ineffective, your dentist might recommend other procedures, including the following:
- Corticosteroid injections
- TMJ arthroscopy
- Arthrocentesis
- Modified condylotomy
- Open jaw surgery
Get help with general dentistry in Missouri City
TMD can be painful, but there are treatments available that can help you. Dr. Carlos A. Alonso has been serving patients in Sugar Land, Texas for more than a decade. At Alonso Family Dental, we offer dental procedures that are as pain-free as possible. The technology that we use is state-of-the-art, and our staff consists of professionals who are highly trained and experienced. We focus on educating patients about their dental options to help them to make decisions that will benefit their overall health. When you choose Alonso Family Dental, you can enjoy a no-anxiety experience and receive the treatment that you need. Call us today to schedule your dental appointment.