If you suffer from symptoms of TMJ disorder, you might feel alone during some circumstances. But little do many people know, more than 10 million Americans suffer from that very same disorder.
In honor of TMJ awareness month, your dentist wants to warn you of the causes of TMJ disorder like teeth grinding in West Mobile. You’ll learn everything you need to know about this disorder so you can avoid it or treat it.
Understand TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joints are the hinge joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. When they become dysfunctional, it’s identified as TMJ disorder. You’ll experience issues chewing and eating as well as speaking. Sometimes you’ll feel an uncomfortable popping, clicking, shooting dental pain, or the jaw sticking in an open or closed position.
Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For
It can be difficult to understand if TMJ disorder is really the problem. Here are the most common symptoms for you to keep an eye out on:
- Discomfort when chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth wide.
- The jaw becomes stuck in an open or closed-mouth position.
- Clicking, popping, grating noises that come from your jaw.
- Pain, tenderness, aching, or fatigue in your jaw.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Painful changes in your bite.
- Swelling on either side of your face.
- Pain in the face, neck, or shoulders.
- Soreness in your ears.
- Tiredness in your facial muscles.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
In most cases, the causes of TMJ disorder don’t seem like they would affect your mouth, so it can be difficult to diagnose. That’s why it’s important to have a professional opinion like your expert dentist. These are the causes that could kickstart your TMJ disorder:
- Anxiety and stress.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth, even while asleep.
- Whiplash (usually from a car accident).
- Trauma or injury to your jaw.
- Obstructive sleep apnea.
Get Treatment for TMJ Disorder
Your dentist is the best person to reach out to when you experience any pain in the head, neck, or jaw. They can help you relieve your pain with:
- Evaluation of your TMJ disorder with a comprehensive dental exam.
- Customized oral appliances to stop teeth from grinding.
- Referral for anxiety treatment and stress management techniques.
- An occlusal adjustment procedure if necessary.
Remember, stress is a big determining factor when it comes to teeth grinding and other symptoms. It’s recommended to relieve tension by exercising at least three times a week for thirty minutes a day. If your anxiety persists, it’s okay to seek additional assistance from a professional.
About Our Office
Here at Parker Dental & Orthodontics, we work relieve oral pain and create beautiful smiles. No matter what your dental issue is—whether it be alignment issues that lead to TMJ disorder, we’re here to help you! You should never hesitate to schedule an appointment at one of our locations. The sooner you receive treatment, the sooner you will be on your way to smiling painlessly. Give us a call today!