Are TMJ and TMD the Same Thing?

If you’re not getting good sleep, it’s hard or impossible to live your waking life to its fullest. That’s why at Spark Sleep Solutions, we’re committed to being the snoring treatment provider that you can trust. We’ll find out exactly what’s going on that’s causing facial pain or interfering with your sleep and solve the problem quickly and carefully. 

Spark Sleep Solutions is an amazing practice you can count on for excellent oral appliance therapy in Santa Cruz. You’ll feel comfortable and relaxed the moment you step into one of our Bay Area offices. Request an appointment today!

Our combination of expertise and personal touch will ensure that you are fully confident in the care you receive. We offer oral appliance therapy in Santa Cruz for sleep apnea and snoring, offering an alternative to CPAP.

What’s the Difference Between TMJ and TMD?

The simple answer is that they aren’t the same thing, even though the two abbreviations are deceptively similar. TMD refers to the broad range of conditions associated with your temporomandibular joint. TMJ is the abbreviation for that joint. In other words, TMD is the thing causing your pain, and your TMJ is the part that hurts. 

TMJ is the Joint Itself

Your temporomandibular joint is what connects your skull and jawbone. It works a lot like a hinge, allowing your jaw to move up and down smoothly, essential for everyday activities like eating or talking. 

TMDs Are the Disorders

There are over 30 conditions that are classified as TMDs – temporomandibular disorders. The main symptoms are pain, jaw joint dysfunction, and issues with the muscles in charge of moving your jaw. 

TMD comes in many forms. Some of the most common examples are:

  • Myofascial Pain Disorder
  • Internal Derangement of the Joint
  • Degenerative Joint Disease

 

The Best Sleep Apnea Solutions in Santa Cruz

Check out our sleep apnea solutions in Santa Cruz. We’re located in Santa Cruz and have many other office locations throughout the Bay Area. Call Spark Sleep Solutions now at 408-490-0182 to see what we can do for you.