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TMJ/TMD Treatment in Wilton, CT

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, you may be dealing with a temporomandibular joint disorder. At The Center for Complete Health Dentistry at Wilton, Dr. Walter Kostrzewski specializes in diagnosing and treating TMJ/TMD conditions, helping patients find relief from chronic pain and discomfort. Our comprehensive approach addresses not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes of your jaw dysfunction.

What is TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts as a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. You have two of these joints—one on each side of your jaw—and they’re among the most complex joints in your body. When these joints become damaged or misaligned, the resulting condition is called temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.

TMD encompasses a range of conditions affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. While the terms TMJ and TMD are often used interchangeably, TMJ refers to the joint itself, while TMD describes the disorder affecting that joint.

Patient experiencing jaw pain from TMJ/TMD discussing symptoms with dentist at The Center for Complete Healthy Dentistry in Wilton, CT

Causes of TMD

TMD can develop from various factors and often results from a combination of issues. Common causes include:

  • Physical injury or trauma to the jaw, head, or neck

  • Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching, especially during sleep

  • Malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth and jaw

  • Stress, which can lead to chronic muscle tension in the jaw

  • Connective tissue diseases affecting the TMJ

  • Structural problems present from birth

In many cases, Dr. Kostrzewski finds that patients develop TMD gradually over time due to repetitive strain or poor oral habits they may not even realize they have.

Symptoms of TMD

TMD manifests differently in each patient, but there are several telltale signs to watch for:

Pain and Discomfort

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints
  • Aching pain around your ear
  • Facial pain or discomfort

Functional Issues

  • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
  • Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening your mouth or chewing

Related Symptoms

  • Chronic headaches or migraines
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Tooth sensitivity without an apparent dental cause

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Left untreated, TMD can worsen and lead to chronic pain conditions.

Connections to Sleep Apnea

Many patients don’t realize that TMD and sleep apnea are often connected. Both conditions can share common risk factors, including:

  • Anatomical issues affecting the airway and jaw position
  • Teeth grinding during sleep, which can be a response to breathing difficulties
  • Poor jaw alignment that affects both joint function and airway space

Dr. Kostrzewski takes a holistic approach to TMD treatment, evaluating whether sleep-disordered breathing may be contributing to your jaw issues. In some cases, treating one condition can significantly improve the other, leading to better overall health and quality of life.

Should I Seek Treatment for TMD?

If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, difficulty eating, or any combination of TMD symptoms, professional treatment can make a significant difference. While some mild TMD symptoms may resolve on their own, chronic or severe cases typically require intervention.

You should definitely seek treatment if:

  • Your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks
  • Pain interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking
  • You experience frequent headaches or earaches
  • Your jaw locks, or you can’t open your mouth fully
  • Conservative at-home remedies haven’t provided relief

Treatment Options

Dr. Kostrzewski offers several effective treatment approaches tailored to your specific needs:

Conservative Therapies

  • Custom-fitted oral appliances or night guards to prevent teeth grinding
  • Physical therapy exercises to strengthen jaw muscles
  • Lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques

Advanced Treatments

  • Occlusal adjustments to correct bite alignment
  • Trigger point injections for muscle pain relief
  • Coordination with physical therapists and other specialists when needed

Most patients experience significant improvement with conservative treatment options. Dr. Kostrzewski will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your condition and your individual circumstances.

Pricing and Insurance

We understand that cost is an important consideration when seeking TMD treatment. Many insurance plans provide coverage for TMJ/TMD therapy, and our knowledgeable staff will work with you to maximize your benefits. We’ll provide a clear estimate of costs before beginning treatment and discuss payment options that fit your budget.

Call Us Today to Schedule an Appointment

Don’t let TMD pain control your life. Dr. Walter Kostrzewski and our experienced team at The Center for Complete Health Dentistry at Wilton are here to help you find relief and restore normal jaw function.

Call us today at 203-762-5800 to schedule your TMD consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

Schedule An Appointment