The joint or hinge
connecting the jaw to the bones on your skull, known as the temporal bones, are
located in front of your ears and allow you to move your jaw from side to side
and up and down. Known as TMJ, these joints also allow you to yawn, chew, and
talk.
WebMD explains that TMD or
temporomandibular disorders, sometimes wrongly referred to as TMJ, which is an
abbreviation of the joint, can be painful and although there is no known cause
of TMD doctors and dentists believe that TMD could be caused by joint problems
or problems with your jaw muscles.
Other causes of TMD
include:
- Tooth clenching or grinding
- Arthritis in your jaw
- Stress causing your jaw and facial muscles to tighten
- Abnormal movement between the disc or soft cushion and the ball socket of the TMJ
- A blow to the TMJ, the jaw or the head or neck muscles
- Whiplash
TMD symptoms can
cause you severe discomfort and pain. Some TMD symptoms can last for years or
be temporary. TMD could affect both or only one side of the face. According to
your dentist, TMD affects more women aged between 20 and 40.
Some of the more
common symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Face or neck and shoulders pain or tenderness
- Pain or tenderness in the TMJ
- Problems opening your mouth
- Jaws that locks or get stuck when closed or open
- Popping, clicking, or grating in the TMJ when you chew or open and close your mouth
- Feeling tired in your face
- Problems chewing
- Problems with your teeth not fitting together
- Facial swelling
- Toothaches,
- Neck aches
- Dizziness
- Earaches and hearing problems
- Tinnitus or ringing in your ears
- Pain in your upper shoulders
TMD can be difficult
to diagnose as other problems, such as sinus issues, gum disease, arthritis or
tooth decay could be to blame. To find out the root cause, your dentist will
give your teeth and gums a thorough examination and enquire about your health
history. Your dentist will also check your TMJ for tenderness or pain while
listening for any grating, popping or clicking sounds upon movement. Your
dentist will also take x-rays and digital photos to rule out any tooth
problems.
If you are diagnosed
with TMD, your dentist may recommend:
- Pain modification with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Moist heat
- Relaxation techniques such as biofeedback or meditation for stress
- A custom-made mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding while sleeping
- Tooth alignment correction such as orthodontic treatment
If you believe that
you may be suffering from TMD, call or click and schedule an appointment with
your dentist who can determine if you are having problems with your temporomandibular
joints. Call or click today.
