You can find TMD treatment options at your Rochester Hills dental office

At the office of Drs. John Aurelia and Dr. Dina Khoury, we have expertise and training in treating patients who suffer from temporomandibular disorder or TMD. TMD is a complex disorder that can cause patients pain and limited jaw mobility. If you are in the Rochester Hills, MI area, you can count on us to accurately diagnose and treat dysfunction of the TMJ.

What causes TMD?

 The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, giving you the ability to use your jaw for eating and speaking. There are many factors that can cause TMD pain, some of the most common include:

• Bruxism – frequent grinding and clenching teeth puts pressure on the TMJ and causes pain.
• Arthritis – This can limit mobility of the jaw.
• Anxiety – Tension from anxiety can cause you to clench your teeth and tighten jaw muscles.
• Misalignment – This can cause uneven chewing surfaces that stress the jaw.

TMD can be caused by one of these factors, or a combination of them. It affects nearly 10 million Americans and often goes undiagnosed due to the variety of symptoms.

What are the symptoms of TMD?

 The severity of symptoms and jaw pain can vary by individual. Some patients experience sharp, stabbing pain, while others experience more of a dull ache. Some of the most common symptoms of TMD are:

• Migraines or headaches
• Facial pain
• Ear pain
• Congestion
• Jaw pain
• Tooth pain

Diagnosing TMD

Diagnosing TMD can be tricky, because there is no negative or positive test that can be done for it. After a thorough medical examination and history, we will make an informed diagnosis based upon your symptoms and their duration.

Treatment options for TMD

Treatment options for TMD often involve multiple approaches. One of the most effective options is a mouth guard that is worn at night. The guard prevents clenching and grinding, and gently repositions your jaws into the right alignment. Patients may also be advised to gently stretch the jaw muscles, use moist heat several times per day, and try relaxation techniques or meditation to decrease tension.

Dr. John Aurelia | Dr. Dina Khoury
Connect with John L. Aurelia, DDS on Linkedin.

Experience dentistry with a difference at the office of John L. Aurelia, DDS. With our friendly staff and warm atmosphere, we ensure that your comfort and wellbeing take priority.

Dr. John L. Aurelia received his BA degrees in Biology, Business and Economics from the Kalamazoo College, MI and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy. He’s keen on continuous education and has followed courses in cosmetic dentistry, implants, and occlusion at places like the Dawson Academy for Advanced Continuing Dental Education and Pankey Institute. He’s a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, and American and Michigan Dental Associations. He has participated in many humanitarian missions.

Having graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Dr. Dina Khoury served Veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. She has been in private practice for two decades and is passionate about cosmetic dentistry.