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TMJ disorder is one of the most common conditions that affect the teeth, jaw, and face. If you suffer from the disorder, you’re not alone.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is like a hinge that connects your jawbone and skull. These joints are situated on both sides of your jaw. This joint helps you chew, yawn, and talk and can move from side to side and up and down.
When you develop problems in this joint, it can cause you issues with chewing or swallowing and opening and closing your mouth while bringing pain and discomfort to your jaw, ears, and face.
But what are the causes and symptoms of this disorder, and what should you do if you have it?
In this article, we’ll discuss TMJ disorder treatment in more depth. Keep on reading to learn more.
What Is a TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are amongst the most common conditions that can affect your teeth, jaw, and face. TMJ disorders usually develop in adulthood, although they can affect children too.
In short, TMJ disorder is a condition that affects your ability to open your mouth easily or chew food properly. If you have the disorder, it’s a sign that your jaw isn’t functioning well.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?
There are several TMJ disorder symptoms to look out for. If you experience pain or tenderness in the jaw, difficulty chewing your food, aching pain in or around your ear, or locking your jaw, these could all be signs that you need TMJ disorder treatment.
You might also experience tinnitus (a ringing in your ears), neck and shoulder pain, earaches, and toothache due to the condition.
TMJ disorders tend to affect more women than men, and it is most common in people aged 20-40.
What Are the Causes of TMJ Disorders?
There are many potential causes of TMJ disorders. These can include arthritis, genetic factors, or often an injury such as a blow to the jaw or whiplash.
Other potential TMJ causes may include bruxism, the repeated clenching or grinding of your teeth brought on by stress, which puts considerable pressure on the joint.
How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?
To diagnose TMJ disorders, your dentist will start by asking you about your general health history, after which they’ll conduct an oral exam of your mouth. They’ll be looking for tenderness, pops and clicks in your joint, or grating sounds when the joint is moved.
Your dentist will also take some X-ray images of your jaw to get a clearer understanding of the problems you’re facing.
Specialized TMJ treatment can help control the symptoms of the disorder. When it comes to treatment, there are several options available. These include using mouthguards to prevent bruxism, muscle relaxants, physical therapy, and in rare cases, oral surgery.
How Can We Help?
If you believe you’re experiencing the symptoms of a TMJ disorder, it is recommended to see a dentist who can help diagnose the condition and find the right treatment solution that best suits your needs.
Here at Northland Village Dental Centre in Calgary, we offer comprehensive dental solutions to help with TMJ disorders, bruxism, missing teeth, and much more. Please feel free to contact us to learn more about our services.