TMJ Problems?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a chronic condition that diminishes your quality of life over time. We can relieve your pain and restore your jaw function with our state-of-the-art treatment options. Keep reading to learn more.
What is TMJ disorder?
We use the term “TMJ disorder” to describe any problem with the temporomandibular joints. You have a TMJ on either side of your face to allow you to open and close your mouth. Your temporomandibular joints give you the ability to chew and speak. Any damage to them or the muscles supporting them can cause a TMJ disorder. Without treatment, TMJ disorders will worsen over time.
Different types of TMJ disorder
TMJ disorder is not a single problem. There are several types, including:
- Degenerative joint disease: Inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, or a damaged disk causes the TMJ to wear down over time.
- Internal joint derangement: There is a disc outside the temporomandibular joint that allows the jaw to move freely up and down and side to side. An injured disc can shift the jaw out of position, causing difficulties with movement.
- Myofascial pain disorder: Chronic jaw clenching and teeth grinding can cause sore, tense, and painful jaw muscles, making opening and closing your mouth more difficult.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
If you have any of these most common symptoms, you may have a TMJ disorder:
- Jaw clicking and popping
- Sore jaw
- Earaches/ringing in the ears
- Headaches
- Locked jaw
- Pain when opening your mouth
- Neck pain
To know if you do have a TMJ disorder, you need a comprehensive dental exam and X-rays. With this information, we can create a comprehensive treatment plan to address your specific TMJ symptoms and restore your jaw health.
TMJ Disorder: Causes and Treatment
We cannot always pinpoint the exact cause of a TMJ disorder, but certain risk factors can trigger or worsen your condition:
- Jaw clenching
- Teeth grinding
- Arthritis
- Misaligned bite
- Stress
- Missing teeth
- Facial trauma
With treatment, we aim to address the cause of your TMJ disorder, relieve your symptoms, and preserve the health of your jaw joints. In most cases, the best way to treat a TMJ disorder is to relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joints by shifting your jaw into the proper position. We may use a combination of treatments, including clear aligners to correct bite problems and a nightguard to protect your teeth and allow your jaw to rest comfortably while you sleep.
If you think you have a TMJ disorder, please contact our office located in Toledo, OH. We can schedule an examination to determine if you need treatment. Your oral health is important to us. Call today!
