There’s nothing like an intense headache or other forms of facial pain to ruin your mood. Though some headaches don’t last long, the ones caused by TMJ disorder are a different story. TMJ disorder can also put you in danger of other serious issues. Continue reading to learn more about this condition, treatment options, and the ways in which it can affect your overall well-being.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to the skull, which allows you to move it. If this joint becomes irritated or inflamed, this can lead to TMJ disorder. Also called TMD, this is a condition that is characterized by severe pain that can be temporary or chronic. This can affect one or both sides of the jaw, and the pain is further aggravated by normal jaw motion.
8 Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Though the exact cause of TMJ disorder is unknown, there are many factors that are believed to play a role. These include bruxism (clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth), jaw or face injury or trauma, crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, excessive stress, and arthritis. There are several signs of TMD that you should look out for, such as:
- Popping and clicking whenever you move your jaw
- Jaw sticking when you open or close your mouth
- Problems opening and closing your mouth
- Pain in the face, neck, jaw, or ear
- Tooth wear due to grinding
- Frequent headaches
- Issues chewing
- Sleep issues
Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated?
One of the most common ways to treat TMJ disorder is with custom oral appliances. A night guard prevents patients with bruxism from clenching their jaw and grinding their teeth together when they sleep. Some oral appliances can also correct a patient’s bite or reduce stress on the jaw. In some cases, the size and shape of a few teeth can be changed slightly to fix bite issues as well as provide TMJ relief.
Some dentists also offer BOTOX injections. Studies show that this may decrease pain and increase mouth movement for three months. Regular injections are necessary to continue the benefits.
The Risks of Untreated TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder isn’t life-threatening, but the symptoms can negatively affect your life. Consistent pain can worsen your sleep patterns, posture, mood, eating habits, and even the amount of oxygen you take in. Some major risks associated with untreated TMD include:
- Development of an airway sleep disorder or insomnia
- The jaw getting stuck while opening or closing
- Joint damage and inflammation
- Asymmetrical muscle growth
- Discomfort when eating
- Premature dental wear
- Recurring headaches
- Chronic jaw pain
- Tinnitus
If you have any of the above symptoms, contact your dentist. They will be able to administer treatment for your TMJ disorder so you can start enjoying a pain-free beam!
About the Practice
Dr. Sara Saba and her Silver Spring team at Exceptional Dentistry offer patients treatments to help them maintain good overall and oral health. This includes treatment for TMJ disorder to get rid of any pain you’re experiencing and allow you to eat, laugh, and live your life to the fullest. To make an appointment with Dr. Saba or to learn more about TMD treatment, call Exceptional Dentistry’s office at (301) 871-6660 or visit their website.