Dental Treatments For Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
What Is The Temporomandibular Joint?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the area directly in front of the ear on either side of the head where the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) connect. TMJ involves conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, jaw muscles and nerves on one or both sides of the head that result in jaw, face, and head and neck pain. The TMJ is used throughout the day to move the jaw, for biting and chewing, talking, yawning. It’s one of the most frequently used joints if the body.
Symptoms Associated With TMJ Disorder May Be:
- Jaw pain or tenderness of the jaw
- Earache ( Particularly in the morning)
- Hearing loss
- Migraine ( Particularly in the morning)
- Dull, aching pain in the face
- Biting or chewing difficulty or discomfort
- Reduced ability to open or close the mouth
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Clicking, popping, or grating sound when opening closing the mouth
What Causes Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) Disorder?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms can be an effect of trauma such as a car accident (whiplash for example) an injury to the joint, improper alignment of the jaw and teeth, vigorous chewing, prolonged dental work, clenching or grinding of the teeth, especially while sleeping, can also cause or aggravate symptoms.
What Can a Dentist Do For Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
The pain and discomfort caused by TMJ may be severe, can be either intermittent or constant, and may last for many years. Symptoms may recur during stressful times, whether good or bad. There are some steps to take to help relieve some of your pain such as, moist heat, ice, soft diet, jaw exercise, relaxation techniques, relax facial musical, and sleep on your side.
A Family Dentist may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments. If you or anyone you know suffers from TMJ or any type of facial or neck pain, we can likely relieve your systems naturally, without the use of drugs or surgery. Please contact a Family Dentistry for more information.