TMJ Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Posted on 6/8/2020 by Ranches Family Dental
TMJ disorder is a term that refers to the issues that affect the health and functioning of your temporomandibular joints and your mouth. These issues cause your TMJ to become irritated and inflamed. When this happens, you may experience excruciating pain eating, speaking, or even just opening your mouth.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can be caused by several different issues. Common issues that can lead to TMJ disorder include:
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Facial trauma.
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Dislocating your jaw.
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Bruxism.
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Certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
The Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
When TMJ disorder first begins, you may not even be aware that there is an issue. Symptoms appear minor, barely noticeable. However, the longer the cause goes untreated, the worse the symptoms become. There are many symptoms that can point to TMJ disorder.
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Pain in your TMJ, your jaw, and your face.
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Facial and jaw swelling.
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Excessive, uneven tooth wear.
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Trouble, and pain, eating and speaking.
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Clicking, popping, or grinding in the joints.
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Temporary lockjaw.
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Headaches and earaches.
Treatment Options
When you notice symptoms of TMJ disorder, it is important that you seek treatment right away. The type of treatment you receive depends upon the cause. Treatments include:
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Over the counter pain relievers.
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Stress relief techniques such as yoga or meditation.
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A night guard.
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Botox injections.
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Orthodontics.
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Oral surgery.
Surgery for TMJ Disorder
In many cases, TMJ disorder can be treated non-surgically, and it is often recommended that non-surgical treatments be tried first. However, if your situation is more severe, or no other treatments have proven effective, you may be recommended for oral surgery. There are a few different surgical procedures that may be provided.
With the right treatment, your TMJ pain can be alleviated, restoring normal functions to your mouth and your quality of life. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Ranches Family Dental today at (385) 374-0500.
Ranches Family Dental, 3435 E. Pony Express Parkway Suite 110 Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 : (385) 374-0500 : ranchesfamilydental.com : 10/11/2024 : Related Terms: dentist Eagle Mountain UT :
TMJ disorder is a term that refers to the issues that affect the health and functioning of your temporomandibular joints and your mouth. These issues cause your TMJ to become irritated and inflamed. When this happens, you may experience excruciating pain eating, speaking, or even just opening your mouth.