TMJ Symptoms and Treatment

TMJ or TMD (Temporomandibular joint disorder) is a very common medical condition even though most of the time people fail to recognize the problem.  The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw to the base of the skull. How you chew your food and how your jaws meet together can be a reason for discomfort and pain in this joint and the muscles associated with it. If you have a TMJ problem, the best dentists in Sanford that you can go to are at Oakport Dental.

Symptoms of TMJ

If you have recurrent health issues like migraines, headaches, facial pain, neck, shoulder and back ache then don’t ignore the problem as it could be because of TMJ.  It’s imperative to make an appointment to visit your dentist because they might be able to help with your TMJ issues.

A common symptom associated with TMJ disorder is clenching your teeth during the day and grinding them at night – also known as bruxism. This might result in your teeth becoming worn out and if this occurs in conjunction with migraines, shoulder pain and the like then it’s important to consult your dentist as early as possible. Sanford Dentists at Oakport Dental are committed to addressing this problem.

Common symptoms of TMJ disorder

·         Bruxism – grinding or clenching your teeth

·         Clicking or popping noises when you chew

·         Difficulty opening your mouth wide

·         Pain in the muscles around the jaw

·         Pain in front of the ear, spreading to the temple, cheek or ear itself

·         Headache or migraine

·         Back, neck or shoulder ache

·         Pain or buzzing in the ear

·         Insomnia

Causes of TMJ

The first procedure employed by your dentist will be to analyze and determine the cause of your TMJ disorder and related discomfort.  Several factors can lead to TMJ syndrome like misalignment of the teeth or jaw, teeth grinding, injury to the teeth or jaw, poor posture, arthritis, stress, and gum chewing. The condition is also further aggravated due to stress, injury, changes to your bite (poorly fitted dentures) and as part of a wider medical condition such as fibromyalgia. Sometimes, the condition has no obvious cause.

Treatment for TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorders can sometimes be addressed through home remedies which include placing ice packs to the jaw joint, avoiding chewing gum and gently massaging the jaw and neck. Other measures are eating soft foods, stress management and applying relaxation therapies. If these home remedies fail to alleviate your discomfort, it’s best to seek medical advice from a dentist. Unlike other dentists in Sanford, we at Oakport Dental do not believe that the only solution for this issue is through surgery. At our private dental practice in Sanford, we will evaluate your condition and make a treatment plan to finally end the discomfort and pain caused by TMJ problems.

One of the most common treatments is to wear a mouth guard at night. These hard plastic guards are similar to sports mouth guards and prevent the surfaces of your teeth from grinding together while you sleep. Your mouth guard will be made to fit your teeth exactly for maximum comfort. Other treatments for TMJ include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers such as aspirin and acetaminophen. In severe cases of TMJ surgery on the jaw or dental surgery may be carried out.