The Facts of TMJ Syndrome

What You Should Know About Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, more commonly referred to as TMJ, is when the hinge connection to the lower and upper jaw is not working properly. The hinge connecting these two jaw bones is one of the most complex in the body and is responsible for moving the lower jaw side to side as well as forward and backward. Any issues interfering with this system of muscles, discs, ligaments, and bones that prevents it from working properly is attributed to TMJ.

Symptoms of TMJ

There are many symptoms attributed to TMJ, and it is often hard for patients to determine if they have TMJ since many of the disorder’s symptoms can also be ascribed to other medical problems. A dental professional can help patients to make the right diagnosis by collecting a complete medical and dental history as well as conducting an exam and taking the appropriate x-rays. Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ include:

• Popping or clicking sounds when the mouth is opening or closing
• Headaches, pain, and pressure behind the eyes and/or earaches
• Unexplained pain in the area of and around the jaw, ears, or face
• Pain when opening the mouth wide, chewing, or yawning
• Tender jaw muscles
• Jaws that lock, go out, or “get stuck” inexplicably
• Sudden change in the way the lower and upper jaw fit together
• Swelling of the face, specifically in the jaw region

Treatments for TMJ

While there is no one cure for TMJ, there are a number of different treatments that can be used to help dramatically reduce symptoms and provide pain relief for suffering patients. After an exam has determined that TMJ is the prime cause of discomfort, the patient’s dental professional may recommend one or more of the following treatments to be used to help:

• Applying moist heat to eliminate muscle pain or muscle spasms
• Taking medications, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxers, or aspirin tablets or capsules
• Wearing a split or bite-plate to help reduce the effects of grinding teeth or clenching jaws
• Practicing relaxation techniques to control the muscle tension in the jaw
• Treatment or counseling for stress to help relieve muscle tension in the jaw
• Jaw joint surgery should other methods be ineffective

If you're concerned you might have TMJ, you can always consult with your doctor or dentist, and remember you can always sign up for our New Hampshire Individual Discount Dental Plan to save as much as 20 percent on all your dental bills. For more information, please click here.

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