Temporomandibular disorders, collectively known as TMJ, are disorders of the temporomandibular joints, jaw muscles, and nerves linked to chronic facial pain. Any problem that prevents bones, joints, and muscles from working together properly can result in temporomandibular disorder. The symptoms of TMJ can be very painful and can greatly affect your quality of life if not looked after, which is why it is important to understand the potential signals of TMJ and seek TMJ treatment in Seton as soon as possible.
What Are Your Temporomandibular Joints?
Your temporomandibular joints are the two joints that connect your skull to your jaw. The joints are located in front of each ear and slide to allow the jaw to open and close, move side to side, and back and forth. When your jaw and these joints are aligned properly, normal muscle movement can occur. However, when they are not aligned, these muscles cannot move smoothly together and cause issues to occur.
What Causes TMJ?
Often, the specific cause of TMJ is not clear. Sometimes it is caused by too much strain on the jaw joints due to clenching and grinding at night. Injury to the neck, head, and jaw can also cause TMJ. In other cases, arthritis or fibromyalgia may be the culprit. Visiting your dentist near you can help you determine what may be causing your TMJ.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?
While TMJ has a variety of symptoms, some of the most common are:
- Chronic headaches
- Pain behind the eyes, face, back, neck, and shoulders
- Earache and ringing in your ears
- Locking of the jaw
- Dizziness
- Tooth sensitivity
- Numbness or tingling
- Jaw soreness
- Misaligned bite
Due to the fact that TMJ symptoms mimic a wide variety of health disorders, TMJ symptoms may present as other conditions or health issues. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, visit your dentist in Cranston for an examination and potential diagnosis.
How is TMJ Diagnosed?
When you visit a dentist in Seton for help with TMJ symptoms, your dentist will ask you about your medical history, perform a physical exam of your mouth, joints, neck, and head, and send you for imaging tests to determine if you are suffering from TMJ. In some cases, you may be referred to an oral maxillofacial specialist for further testing.
What Are the Treatments for TMJ?
The type of TMJ treatment near you that your dentist offers will depend on your age, overall health, and symptoms. Treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy
- A night guard
- Oral surgery
- Diet changes
- Posture training
- Medicine such as painkillers
- Behaviour changes
- Relaxation methods and stress management techniques
TMJ symptoms are often triggered during moments of stress. Part of TMJ treatment in Cranston is learning what triggers your stress and symptoms so that you can actively prevent the occurrence of a flare-up. Visit your dentist regularly so your TMJ can be monitored.
Visit Seton Dental Wellness
Our team at Seton Dental Wellness understands how frustrating and debilitating the symptoms of TMJ disorder can be. No one should have to live with chronic pain, and we are happy to provide our patients with information and treatment options for TMJ disorders. Our team of dedicated dental professionals prioritizes your health and wellbeing above all else, and we are glad to work with you until you find the right treatment to alleviate your painful symptoms. Please feel free to contact our clinic to book a consultation today!