Do you feel reoccurring pain in your jaw area? Is it consistent? If so, you may be a sufferer of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder. This condition can be uncomfortable, stressful, and the result of all sorts of underlying medical conditions. Here are some important facts everyone needs to know about TMJ disorder, as well as advice on how to best treat it.
What is TMJ?
Every human being has Temporomandibular Joints on either side of their jaw, and a great many of us tend to suffer from a TMJ disorder for varying reasons. The disorder itself is a term that comprises of pain and dysfunction conditions that arise in the jaw and TMJ. From a general perspective, this can include muscle pain, joint click, joint locking or joint inflammation. Muscle jaw pain and TMJ clicking tend to be the most common symptoms of a TMJ disorder.
What Else Could My Symptoms Mean?
The aforementioned symptoms might not only be related to a TMJ disorder. For example, you could very well be grinding or clenching your teeth, which can increase pain in the jaw. Many of us do this, even at night, and it shares the same symptoms as a TMJ disorder. Additionally, sometimes stress buildup can be involved. Another alternative is a poor or erratic sleep cycle, which would contribute to these same symptoms. In some rare instances, these symptoms could be related to an issue with your bite or occlusion.
How is a TMJ Disorder Treated?
There are a few different ways to treat TMJ disorders. After extensive research and years of practice in the field of jaw care, we believe that TMJ is best treated in a conservative manner. This includes the utilization of an oral appliance or nightguards, as well as a regular exercise regimen. In more extreme circumstances, we may recommend surgical procedures, but they usually are not necessary to alleviate the pain and reduce the effects of TMJ disorder symptoms in patients.
How Do I know if My TMJ Disorder is Serious or Non-serious?
It is important to consider your symptoms; if they have been worsening or the same for the past 6 months or longer, it may indicate a chronic TMJ condition that needs to be assessed by a certified health professional. Be sure to seek out treatment if you are encountering these circumstances.
To learn more about our treatments for TMJ disorders and how we can protect your health, Contact us today. If you happen to have TMJ-related issues, we’ll be able to tell as well as suggest and provide ideal treatment methods.