TMJ Disorder is a common condition affecting the hinge joint of the jaw. It can occur on one or both sides of the face at a time. With a wide variety of signs and symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose yourself.
How do you know if you have TMJ Disorder? What should you do if you think you have it? Here’s what you need to know.
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the location on each side of your face where your lower jaw connects to your head. The TMJ can become inflamed or misaligned, resulting in a disorder that can make it difficult to eat and speak.
Common Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
- Pain in the location of the joint
- Pain and tension in the facial muscles surrounding the TMJ
- Limited range of motion in your jaw (difficulty opening and closing your mouth)
- Ear pain or ringing due to proximity to the TMJ
- Neck pain and tension
- Swelling of the face and jaw
- Clicking or popping sound when chewing or moving your jaw
Diagnosing TMJ Disorder
If you have one or more of the above symptoms, you may have TMJ Disorder. But to get an official diagnosis you need to make an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist can perform an evaluation that may include dental X-rays to get a clear picture of the joint. They will also ask about your symptoms and your daily habits to determine the possible cause.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ Disorder may be caused by a blow to the face that causes the joint to become misaligned. There is a disc that cushions the joint that has the potential to slip out of place. Sometimes just chewing on something hard or chewy, or constantly chewing on gum or ice can cause TMJ Disorder. Grinding your teeth is a common aggravator of the TMJ. In other cases arthritis or autoimmune diseases can cause TMJ disorder
Treating TMJ Disorder
There are a variety of ways to treat TMJ disorder, and the best option for you depends on your individual case. TMJ treatments include:
- Rest your jaw as much as possible
- Eat soft foods that don’t require chewing
- Apply ice to the sides of the face where the TMJ is located
- Bite splints help to realign the joint
- A night guard can absorb the force of teeth grinding
- BOTOX injections can reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles
- In severe cases surgery may be necessary to rebuild the joint
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder
How can I prevent TMJ flare ups?
Flare ups are recurrences of the symptoms of TMJ Disorder. This can happen when the circumstances that caused the TMJ Disorder in the first place, such as chewing too forcefully or two frequently, reoccur. Remembering to wear your night guard can help prevent flare ups.
Why should I see a dentist for TMJ Disorder?
Dentists specialize in the entire mouth structure, not just the teeth, but also the jaw. For conditions affecting the jaw, your dentist is the right medical professional to diagnose and treat the disorder. If necessary, they may refer you to a specialist for treatment.
Learn More About TMJ Disorder From Aliso Smiles
If you have symptoms of TMJ Disorder, Aliso Smiles can provide you with an accurate diagnosis. After a brief evaluation, a treatment plan can be created to alleviate your symptoms and prevent future flare ups.
Call 949-916-7800 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.