If you are dealing with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), you already know about the jaw pain and discomfort that it causes. But did you know that TMD can also lead to light sensitivity? In this guide, we will explore the connection between TMD and light sensitivity and provide you with practical coping strategies.
Understanding TMD and Light Sensitivity
The Link Between TMD and Light Sensitivity
Dr. Kelley Mingus, a leading dentist based in Bend, Oregon, sheds light on the link between TMD and light sensitivity. TMD is a jaw disorder characterized by pain in your jaw joint and muscles — the ones controlling jaw movement. This ailment can result from various causes, such as arthritis, jaw injury, or genetics.
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is usually symptomatic of various conditions, including TMD. This is primarily due to the intricacy of cranial nerves, where nerves responsible for facial and jaw pain are also linked with optic nerves controlling light sensitivity.
Symptoms of TMD-Related Light Sensitivity
Sufferers of TMD-related light sensitivity could face an array of symptoms. Such symptoms can include mild discomfort in bright light, frequent headaches in bright sunlight or harsh indoor light, and an increased blink rate when exposed to light.
At Dr. Mingus’ dental office, we believe in patient-centered care. It is crucial to consult a dental professional if you notice these symptoms and are known to have TMD.
Effective Coping Strategies for TMD Light Sensitivity
Visit a Professional
First and foremost, if you are grappling with light sensitivity due to TMD, you should ensure to visit a specialist like Dr. Mingus. Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential in finding the underlying cause of light sensitivity associated with TMD, as it often indicates another interconnected issue that needs attention.
Protective Eyewear
Wearing sunglasses, particularly those designed to block the blue end of the light spectrum, is often recommended.
TMJ Disorder Therapy
If the primary cause of your light sensitivity is TMJ disorder, then your treatment will focus on addressing this root cause. Dr. Mingus offers comprehensive TMD treatment at his dental clinic in Bend, Oregon. The treatment focuses on determining the underlying causes of TMD pain and treating them to alleviate symptoms such as light sensitivity.
Lifestyle Modifications
Often, TMD and associated symptoms can be mitigated with changes to your everyday life. Regularly performing jaw exercises, managing stress, and maintaining a diet beneficial for your dental health can help.
Wrapping Up
TMD-related light sensitivity is often overlooked or misunderstood. It is critical to understanding the connection between TMD and light sensitivity and the various coping strategies available to sufferers. A visit to our dental clinic at 225 SW Scalehouse Loop, Bend, Oregon, for a checkup with Dr. Mingus can help you begin your journey to alleviating your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
About Dr. Mingus
Based in beautiful Bend, Oregon, Dr. Mingus specializes in comprehensive dental care with a strong focus on TMJ disorder treatment, neuromuscular dentistry, and sleep apnea treatment. The experienced team at Dr. Mingus’ dental office aims to provide patient-centered care and the latest advancements in dentistry.