Waterford Dental
TMJ Treatment
The TMJ is a complex joint that integrates with many other muscle systems.
TMJ
When the TMJ and muscles of the face are not functioning properly, patients may experience a plethora of symptoms. The TMJ, muscles, and teeth all need to be aligned and functioning properly to make you comfortable and stable.
What are the signs of TMJ Dysfunction?
- Ear pain, hearing problems, or ringing in the ears
- Inability to fully open or close your mouth
- Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck, shoulders, or in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite, as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
- Swelling on one or both sides of the face
- Neck, shoulder and back pain
- Headaches or dizziness
What is TMJ Dysfunction?
The TMJ is made up of a small disc or pad that allows the lower jaw bone to move smoothly to open and close your jaw. If that disc moves out of place or inflammation occurs in the area, pain and dysfunction can occur. There are also several muscles that help us to open and close that can be overworked and cause related pain.
What causes TMJ Dysfunction?
Many things can contribute to the development of TMJD. Stress can be a factor, as well as anything that can cause tension in the jaw and surrounding muscle groups.
A few common causes can be:
- Grinding teeth or clenching your jaw (also referred to as bruxism)
- Injury to the neck or jaw from a trauma such as an auto accident.
- Improper bite alignment
- Arthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Dislocation or erosion of the joint
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