To understand temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), you must know what the temporomandibular joint is. It is the articulation that connects your skull with your lower jaw, and it allows you to move your mouth and jawbone freely. Small but essential movements, such as yawning, opening your mouth, closing your mouth, chewing, and biting, are possible thanks to the TMJ.
So, what happens when you have an issue with the articulation? If you do, due to causes that our dentist in Walden will explain further, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe pain in the joint area
- Frequent headaches
- The locking of your jaw as you open wide your mouth
- Pain in your jaw, mouth, or neck when you open and close your mouth
- Popping sounds in one or both ears
- Toothache
What Causes TMD?
Many causes can lead to TMJ disorder, such as:
Trauma
If you are involved in an accident, you may injure your neck muscles, jaw, or your face, resulting in TMD.
Parafunctional Habits
Oral parafunctional activities, such as bruxism, are a common cause of jaw and tooth pain. If you tend to clench your teeth at night or during the day, and it is causing you headaches or dental aches, you should look for TMJ treatment near you.
Stress
Life gets busier every day, and many people find themselves looking for TMJ treatment in Walden when stressed. Visiting a dentist near you may be the first step to alleviate your symptoms.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint is a degenerative disease that causes severe pain.
TMJ Treatment
There are many things you can do to alleviate TMD symptoms. Let’s review them:
Take Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication and muscle relaxers are excellent to reduce pain. You may ask your dental professional which medication to take in the case of severe pain.
Ice-Packs
Ice packs reduce pain and inflammation. You may apply ice packs or a cold compress on the area of your face that hurts for ten minutes on-and-off.
Avoid Chewing Gum
Chewing gum may stress your TMJ, causing pain and discomfort; hence, dental professionals recommend eliminating gum to avoid jaw pain.
Consume Soft Foods
Sticking to a soft diet will also help you not to feel much discomfort while you eat your meals.
Mouth Guards
Using a mouth guard at bedtime will help prevent wear and teeth of the teeth if you have bruxism. Also, if you play contact sports, we strongly advise you to wear a mouth guard because it will reduce the risk of any injuries.
Relaxation Techniques
You may also practice yoga, meditation, or any other practice that makes you relax to reduce stress in your TMJ.
Massage Your TMJ
Studies show that massaging the articulation helps to loosen it for better motion. You may contact a chiropractor for the best exercises to reduce stress in your TMJ.
Botox
Some medical professionals use Botox for people that are looking forward to loosening their neck muscles for better TMJ movement. Some patients have started feeling better after sessions.
If you feel pain in your TMJ after a stressful day, you should know that it is normal. However, if the ache is persistent, visiting a dental professional is recommended.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you have any other questions or concerns about this disorder, feel free to contact our clinic. We have a team of caring professionals who look forward to helping you improve your health and quality of life. Schedule your appointment today at our dental clinic in Walden.