What Is TMJ Disorder and How Is It Treated?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a more prevalent condition than you may think. We, at High Street Dentistry, understand the frustration of dealing with chronic on and off TMJ pain. We are proud to offer personalized treatment options to help relieve you of your discomfort. You can always count on us!
What Is TMJ Disorder and What Are Its Causes?
Your TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull. If it is damaged or injured, it can lead to a TMJ disorder, causing pain and discomfort in the joint and the muscles controlling the jaw movement. The pain is often severe and may be intermittent or constant.
The exact causes of TMJ disorder are unknown. Factors contributing to the condition may include arthritis, genetics, stress, or trauma. Moreover, teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) places immense pressure on the jaw joint, often aggravating the symptoms.
What Are Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
The symptoms of TMJ disorder include a dull ache in the jaw and surrounding areas, pain when chewing, biting, or yawning, frequent tension headaches and neck aches, and pain in the ears and the surrounding areas. Patients also report facial swelling, toothaches, a popping sound or difficulty opening and closing the mouth, and a sensation that the jaw is stuck or frozen.
TMJ disorder can progress over time if not treated, leading to serious complications, including chronic TMJ inflammations, muscle spasms, interrupted sleep, tooth erosion, and fractured teeth.
What Are TMJ Disorder Treatment Options?
Your trusted team at High Street Dentistry will evaluate your condition to determine the best course of treatment. At times correcting a bad bite with braces alleviates the symptoms. We may need to provide you with a splint to help reduce the stress on the jaw and improve your bite. In some cases, treating TMJ problems may be as simple as reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth to allow the jaw to close correctly, a procedure known as occlusal equilibrium.
Many patients benefit from the use of customized intraoral appliances, which eliminate teeth grinding and gently reposition the jaw joints in a more favorable position, reducing muscle strain and tension, and alleviating the symptoms. The last resort to treating TMJ disorder is sometimes maxillofacial surgery.
TMJ Disorder Treatment Near Me
Contact High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about the symptoms of TMJ disorder. Our skilled and experienced team will evaluate your condition to determine your best treatment options. Call us and schedule your appointment today!