TMJ A healthy functioning jaw is key to your bite function, oral health, and overall physical health. When you have problems with the jaw, it may prevent you from chewing properly, swallowing, talking, and even yawning. Additionally, jaw problems can contribute to pain and suffering. The temporomandibular joint is a part of your jaw that functions as a hinge. It allows you to move the jaw up and down easily and effectively or even sideways. Problems with the jaw and muscles in the mouth are considered temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Whenever you have these problems, you should visit our dental team at 253 Dental Care for examination and have them treated.Causes of TMDIt is not exactly known what causes TMD, but dental experts tend to agree that the problems occur as a result of difficulties in the movement of the jaw muscles. These muscles are crucial for the function of your bite. Trauma, accidents, and other kinds of injury can contribute to failed jaw muscles, hence causing TMD. You may also have temporomandibular disorders if you have stress that makes you constrict your face, affecting the function of the jaw muscles. People with arthritis in their joints may also experience TMD. If you clench your teeth, it could result in problems with the jaw muscles. TMD SymptomsWhen you present in our office, we will look for symptoms that indicate TMD. The disorder leads to severe pain and discomfort. You may have both sides of your face affected. Symptoms include pain in the jaw joint, difficulty opening the mouth wide, trouble while chewing, and swelling on the front part of the mouth. You may also experience neck pain, hearing problems, dizziness, and headaches. Diagnosing TMDWe will examine your neck, shoulder, face, and jaw joints to find out if you really have TMD. Often, if you have temporomandibular disorder, you will experience pain and tenderness within the shoulders, neck, jaw joint, and face. Pain occurring in and around the ears while you speak or chew, or when you open the mouth, could indicate problems with TMJ or the temporomandibular joint. Our dentist does a physical exam to check for things like sounds, pops, clicking, or grating when moving the jaw. We will perform an X-ray to get more details about your jaw. Treating Temporomandibular DisordersTreatment of TMD often is based on the symptoms you experience. Applying moist heat or ice packs may help; however, you should talk to our dentist first before you use them. Our dentist may use treatment options such as a night mouth guard, medication, or dental work including bridges, dentures, braces, and crowns. Surgery may be recommended. Our oral surgeon will perform arthroscopy or open-joint surgery depending on the nature of the problem being treated. How TMJ Affects Gums and TeethTMD can severely damage your gums and teeth, putting your bite into disarray. When you have the disorder, it leads to weakness and pain in your gums. Additionally, TMD creates teeth sensitivity and makes the teeth become brittle. The disorder may cause your gums and teeth to be vulnerable to decay and periodontitis. If you have issues with your jaw muscles, get them treated by our dental professionals. Come to our office at 253 Dental Care or call us at (253) 838-9333 for a consultation. |
