If you have a painful or tender jaw, discomfort in and around your ear, aches in your cheeks or temples, or pain in your chewing muscles, you may worry you have a TMJ disorder.
Daily discomfort may feel endless, and stress can make it worse. Getting to the root of TMJ disorders requires understanding how the condition starts and what physical and mental risk factors exist that could make you more vulnerable. TMJ treatment can help.
About TMJ Disorders
TMJ is the common term for a range of conditions called TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorders. These disorders affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding structures.
The temporomandibular joints are two of the most complex in the human body. They are sliding hinges that can move in multiple ways, including opening and closing and side to side. When anything disrupts these joints, normal function becomes difficult. Surrounding muscles can become sore, and pain can radiate into adjacent areas, making diagnosis challenging.
How it Starts: Triggers and Risk Factors for TMJ Disorders
Jaw Injury
A traumatic event like a fall, blow to the face, or motor vehicle accident can lead to TMJ symptoms.
Disc Derangement
Damage to the disc inside a temporomandibular joint can trigger the condition.
Arthritis
Joint breakdown due to arthritis in the TMJ can be challenging to treat. We can refer you to a trusted local oral surgeon for an evaluation.
Dental Bite Problems
When your teeth are not properly aligned, uneven tooth wear and jaw muscle strain can result. The more severe your bite issues, the more likely you are to develop TMJ symptoms.
Stress
If you frequently clench your jaw due to stress or anxiety, you could worsen or prolong TMJ symptoms. Clenching your jaw strains the muscles supporting the temporomandibular joints.
How We Treat It: Solutions for TMJ Disorders
If you have symptoms related to TMJ disorders, don’t lose hope. Most cases respond well to non-invasive, supportive treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
Lifestyle Changes
Busy adults may find it hard to slow down, but stress-relief techniques can help with TMJ symptoms. Many patients find yoga and meditation helpful to relax muscles.
Dietary Adjustment
Eating a soft-textured diet during TMJ flare-ups can produce significant relief. If you are prone to TMJ episodes, it may be wise always to avoid chewing gum, caramel, taffy, and other chewy, sticky foods.
Custom Night Guards
We prescribe custom night guards that fit comfortably over your teeth. These guards protect your teeth and help prevent clenching and stress on the temporomandibular joints.
Orthodontic Treatment
If a bite problem is the root of your TMJ issues, we can correct it with braces or clear aligners.
Referral to Oral Surgery Specialist
In case of jaw trauma, disc problems, or arthritis, it is possible that non-invasive treatment will not be enough to relieve your symptoms. We can refer you to a local oral surgery practice that specializes in surgical TMJ treatment.
Finding Relief for TMJ Symptoms
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we want to partner with you to relieve TMJ disorders. We have many strategies to combat these often painful symptoms. If you have these symptoms, please call us for an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
What are the most common symptoms of TMJ disorders?
- Jaw muscle discomfort
- Tooth pain
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Facial aching
- A clicking sound from the jaw accompanied by discomfort
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Can TMJ disorders be mistaken for other conditions?
Absolutely. Other disorders that may share symptoms with TMJ include, but are not limited to:
- Tooth decay
- Dental abscesses
- Chronic sinusitis
- Neurological disorders like trigeminal neuralgia
- Tension caused by poor posture
Does chronic teeth grinding always cause TMJ?
Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is sometimes related to TMJ, but the two conditions do not always coexist. Patients may have TMJ without teeth grinding and vice versa. However, bruxism is a possible contributor to TMJ symptoms.
Is TMJ curable?
Many patients can experience complete symptom relief with supportive, non-invasive care like night guards and diet changes. You will need to maintain your lifestyle adjustments to avoid further flare-ups. Surgery can also eliminate symptoms when necessary in your case.
What happens if I put off TMJ treatment?
Continuing to live with untreated TMJ could result in worsened symptoms and tooth damage. The sooner you receive help, the sooner you will feel better.
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we understand how much TMJ symptoms can impact your life. We can diagnose and treat your TMJ-related issues and restore your comfort and quality of life. To schedule your consultation, contact us today.