Do You Have Tmj Issues That Need Treatment?
Posted on 12/16/2024 by San Francisco Dental Arts |
 The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull.
It allows you to open and close your mouth, chew, and speak. When this joint is functioning properly, you shouldn't even notice it.
But for some people, the TMJ can cause pain, clicking, popping, and difficulty chewing. This condition is known as TMJ disorder, or TMD.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see our dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders.
He will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
What are the Symptoms of TMJ?
The most common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
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Pain in the jaw, face, or ears |
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Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth |
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Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth wide |
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Locking of the jaw joint |
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Headaches |
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Neck pain |
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Fatigue |
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ disorder can be caused by a number of factors, including:
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Misalignment of the jaw |
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Arthritis |
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Injury |
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Stress |
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Teeth grinding (bruxism) |
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Poor posture |
How is TMJ Diagnosed?
A dentist or other healthcare professional will usually be able to diagnose TMJ disorder by taking a medical history, performing a physical exam, and taking X-rays of the jaw.
In some cases, they may also order an MRI or CT scan to get a better look at the joint.
How is TMJ Treated?
The treatment for TMJ disorder will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:
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Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding hard foods, using ice packs, and practicing relaxation techniques |
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Medications, such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatories |
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Oral appliances, such as mouth guards or splints, to help reposition the jaw and reduce stress on the joint |
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Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the jaw |
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Injections of corticosteroids or other medications into the joint |
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Surgery, in rare cases, to repair or replace the joint |
Can TMJ Be Prevented?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent TMJ disorder, such as:
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Avoiding hard foods |
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Using ice packs |
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Practicing relaxation techniques |
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Maintaining good posture |
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Seeing a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings |
Conclusion
TMJ disorder can be a painful and frustrating condition, but it is important to remember that it is treatable.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ, see our dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders. He will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
Additional Information
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The American Dental Association has a website with information about TMJ disorder: https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/tmj
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The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research also has a website with information about TMJ disorder: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmj |
Restoration Dentistry
In addition to treating TMJ disorders, dentists can also provide a variety of other services to help you maintain good oral health. These services include:
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Cleanings and exams: Regular cleanings and exams are essential for preventing cavities and gum disease. |
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Fillings: Fillings are used to repair cavities and prevent further decay. |
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Crowns: Crowns are used to cover damaged or weakened teeth. |
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Bridges: Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. |
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Dentures: Dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. |
By taking care of your oral health, you can help prevent TMJ disorder and other dental problems. |
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