TMJ disorder
Tmj disorder review
TMJ disorder is a common problem that can affect virtually everyone. If you have ever had pain or discomfort in your jaw that does not go away quickly, TMJ syndrome may be to blame. The jaw is, understandably, the most frequently used joint in the human body, and the constant stress and strain can eventually lead to inflammation of the joints which causes stiffness and pain. The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is located on either side of the jaw. You can feel this triangular, bony mass by pressing your fingers to your face just in front of the ear; if you move your jaw up and down, you can feel the jaw moving. This complex joint is comprised by a ball-and-socket construction with surrounding connective and muscle tissue. Each time you open and close your mouth to speak or chew, this joint is put into motion. The constant stress of chewing, combined with unconscious jaw clenching or teeth grinding (a common phenomenon that results from stress), can cause considerable joint pain and discomfort in this sensitive area. Your doctor or dentist can diagnose TMJ with a physical examination which includes palpating the jaw joints (either from the outside or by palpating inside the ear), or via an MRI. An MRI is useful for detecting inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the joints of the jaw. Treatment is fairly straightforward, and your dentist can instruct you on how to prevent this painful condition from recurring.
What causes temporomandibular joint disorder? TMJ disorders are common among people of any age. This uncomfortable condition may be caused by constant gum-chewing or the consumption of hard, chewy foods, but in general, it tends to be caused by stress. When you are under pressure, you may clench your jaw without being aware that you are doing so. Many people who experience stress in their daily lives acquire the habit of bruxism, or clenching and grinding their teeth while they are sleeping. While you are not aware that this is happening, a clue that you have this problem is waking up with pain in the ears or face, or with a headache that has no other explanation. Your dentist can tell if you grind your teeth frequently by examining your molars for unnatural smoothing of the surfaces. Fortunately, it is not hard to treat TMJ.
How is temporomandibular joint dysfunction treated, and how can I prevent TMJ? TMJ is easily treated with anti-inflammatories, heat, or icing. To prevent this common disorder from coming back, try to be aware of times when you are clenching your teeth. In some cases, an overnight mouth guard may be necessary to prevent temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ disorder is best prevented by relaxing the jaw joint.