Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
A TMJ disorder can develop as a result of dysfunction in any of the jaw’s numerous components. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ disorder, including the following, it makes sense to schedule an evaluation with your dentist.
- Pain in the jaw
- Pain in structures adjacent to the jaw, such as the ear or neck
- Difficulty chewing
- Clicking or popping noises emanating from the jaw
- Locking of the jaw joint
Because the jaw joint is so complex, consisting of numerous bones, tendons, muscles and nerve structures, a number of potential issues can cause TMJ disorder. Before recommending treatment, it’s important for your provider to determine the specific cause of your condition.
Effective Treatments for Relief of TMJ Disorder Symptoms
Some patients may resign themselves to the idea that the only treatments for TMJ disorder are complex, invasive and expensive. However, that’s not true in many cases, and such patients may be needlessly suffering from their TMJ disorder symptoms.
After assessing your case and determining the factors causing your TMJ disorder, we can recommend the TMJ treatment option that will best meet your needs. These are some of the most common approaches.
- Therapeutic massage: If you hold a significant amount of tension in your jaw, it can result in TMJ symptoms. Often, a specific massage technique targeting the affected structures can reduce patients’ symptoms significantly.
- Oral appliance therapy: Patients can wear a custom-designed oral appliance, typically while they sleep, to reduce clenching of the jaw that can lead to TMJ disorder symptoms.
- Restorative treatments: If your teeth are not in good condition or are missing and not replaced, your bite may shift to avoid placing too much strain on them. Unfortunately, you may develop TMJ disorder as a result of this process. Having those teeth restored or replaced can also restore a normal bite.
Don’t suffer from TMJ symptoms any longer. Contact Tate Family Dentistry to set up your evaluation and learn about the TMJ treatment options that will work best for you.