Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJD, affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. This disorder can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. People with TMJ disorder might experience symptoms like jaw clicking, popping sounds, difficulty chewing, and headaches.
Living with TMJD can be challenging. It can interfere with daily activities like eating and speaking, and cause chronic discomfort. It can also lead to dental issues, such as dental erosion or chipped teeth.
OMT, or osteopathic manipulative treatment, is a technique that can help alleviate symptoms of TMJD naturally. Our specially trained dental professionals at Beyond Smiles often use OMT techniques to reduce pain, teeth grinding, and other symptoms.
How Common is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is a relatively common condition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, TMJ disorders affect between 5%-12% of the general adult population. It’s more prevalent in women than men, and frequently affects people between the ages of 20-40. Understanding how common TMJ disorder is helps highlight the importance of finding effective treatments to manage and alleviate its symptoms.
What Is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment?
Osteopathic treatment focuses on the whole body, aiming to improve overall health and wellness. It involves hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent health problems.
Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) uses gentle pressure, stretching, and resistance to move joints and soft tissues like muscles and tendons. It essentially focuses on physically shifting parts of the body that are out of alignment back into place. This manual technique helps improve blood flow, range of motion, reduces pain, and promotes healing.
How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help TMJ Disorder
Osteopathic manipulative treatment can be incredibly effective for TMJ disorder. Dentists trained in osteopathic medicine use specific techniques to relieve muscle tension and improve joint function in the area. These techniques can reduce pain and inflammation, enhance mobility, and promote overall jaw health.
Osteopathic manipulation treatment can aid in:
- Reducing Muscle Tension: OMT helps relax the muscles around the jaw, reducing the tightness and discomfort associated with TMJD.
- Improving Joint Function: By gently manipulating the jaw and surrounding muscles, osteopathic treatment can improve joint alignment and function.
- Enhancing Blood Flow: Better blood flow helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the affected areas. This can promote healing and reduce pain.
- Promoting Relaxation: Osteopathic techniques can help reduce stress, which is often a contributing factor to TMJD symptoms.
Why Choose Beyond Smiles for Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment?
At Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge, we understand the impact TMJ disorder can have on your quality of life. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Here’s why we’re your source for effective TMJ osteopathic treatment in Park Ridge, IL:
- Knowledgeable in Osteopathic Medicine: Our dentists are trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We create individualized treatment plans that address your specific symptoms and health care needs.
- Comprehensive Care: We provide patient-focused treatments for a variety of dental and medical conditions. You can rely on us for tethered oral tissues treatment, general dentistry, Invisalign, sleep apnea treatment, and more.
- Compassionate: Our team is committed to providing a comfortable and supportive environment for all our patients.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
- Community-Focused Practice: We’re a trusted dental practice in Park Ridge, IL, and dedicated to serving our community.
Take the Next Step
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, don’t wait to seek help. Osteopathic medicine treatment at Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge can provide the relief you need. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our holistic techniques can benefit you.