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Do you suffer from frequent jaw pain, clicking sounds when you chew, or persistent headaches? These symptoms might not just be stress-related—they could be signs of TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder.
TMD affects millions of people, yet many go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. At Dr. Romick Orthodontics in Cincinnati, we help patients understand the causes behind their discomfort and offer treatment solutions that bring real relief.
What Is TMD?
TMD refers to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joints (TMJ)—the small, complex joints on either side of your jaw that allow you to speak, chew, and move your mouth.
These joints work in harmony with your facial muscles and teeth alignment. When there’s an issue with the way they function, it can cause pain, inflammation, and other symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Common Symptoms of TMD
TMD symptoms can vary from person to person, and they may appear gradually or suddenly. Some of the most common include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or limited jaw movement
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- Facial pain or swelling
- Neck and shoulder tension
Because TMD symptoms can overlap with other conditions—like sinus problems, ear infections, or dental issues—it’s important to get a professional evaluation.
What Causes TMD?
There isn’t always a single cause of TMD, but some contributing factors include:
- Jaw misalignment or bite problems
- Clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism)
- Stress, which can increase muscle tension
- Arthritis or joint inflammation
- Injury to the jaw or face
In many cases, TMD develops from a combination of issues related to bite alignment and jaw joint function—areas where orthodontists like Dr. Romick have advanced training and insight.
Can an Orthodontist Help Treat TMD?
Yes! While general dentists may identify early signs of TMD, orthodontists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat the underlying structural causes, especially when related to jaw alignment or bite.
At Dr. Romick Orthodontics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing TMD, which may include:
- Thorough evaluation of your jaw, bite, and facial structure
- Digital imaging to assess joint health and tooth alignment
- Customized treatment options such as:
- Orthodontic treatment to realign the bite
- Mouthguards or bite splints to reduce grinding and jaw tension
- Lifestyle recommendations to reduce strain on the jaw
- Referral to other specialists if advanced joint therapy or surgical intervention is needed
Why Choose Dr. Romick Orthodontics for TMD Care?
Dr. Romick brings decades of experience in understanding the relationship between teeth, jaw alignment, and facial muscles. Our practice uses advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care plans to uncover the root cause of your discomfort—not just mask the symptoms.
Patients across Cincinnati trust us to take their pain seriously and provide long-term solutions designed to improve comfort, function, and quality of life.
If you’ve been living with jaw pain, headaches, or other unexplained facial discomfort, don’t wait to get answers. A professional evaluation can help you understand what’s going on—and what can be done to fix it.
