TMJ-TMD


Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

Millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull. These joints get a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.


Symptoms of TMD include:

  • Pain in the jaw area
  • Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
  • Frequent headaches or neck aches
  • Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
  • Swelling on the sides of the face
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw area
  • A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
  • Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth

Should you notice any of these symptoms, let your doctor know. Your dentist can help indicate the presence of TMD and create an effective treatment just for you.

There are a few simple steps you can take at home or work to prevent TMD from becoming more severe, or to prevent it from occurring:

  • Relax your face — remember the rule: "Lips together, teeth apart"
  • Avoid grinding your teeth
  • Avoid constant gum chewing
  • Don't cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder — either use a headset or hold the receiver in your hand
  • Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
  • Do not sit with your chin rested on your hand
  • Practice good posture — keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared


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I've been to a lot of dentists in my lifetime and this is the best experience I have ever had!! My dental work is perfect! Never any pain! Kind, caring and gentle staff! I drive all the way from Spokane for my appointments and am always excited to come here and see everyone!!

Excellent service! Super impressed by the professionalism and thorough work ethic of the staff members. I would recommend this outstanding experience to anyone truly seeking a family-like environment! Thanks for taking care of me and my family. Wink, wink.

This is the best Dental office in the whole of Washington state, no doubt. Dr. Mark Walker is a field Marshall in Dental technology in the USA. Thank you Mark for restoring all my teeth so that I can smile again. God send you to help me. God bless you and your family and all your workers.

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As one of the legacy dental practices in Kent, WA, with over 30 years of experience, Meridian Dental Clinic provides 5-star-rated dental care to patients in Renton, Tukwila, SeaTac, Cascade-Fairwood, East Hill-Meridian, Maple Heights-Lake Desire, Shadow Lake, Covington, Lakeland North, & Auburn.

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