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Does your jaw click or pop? If so, joint sound is one of the most recognized signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Not all jaw sounds point to TMD, but it can be an early sign. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) urges you to always get your jaw examined by your dentist when you notice any popping, clicking or other unusual sounds. The temporomandibular joints are the points at which the lower jaw attaches to the skull and are among the most complex joints in the human body. If you place your fingers on the sides of your face, just in front of your ears, and open and close your mouth, you can feel the movement of the mandible in the temporomandibular joints. Contact your dentist as soon as you notice any new joint sound or discomfort in your mouth because it is better to be safe than sorry! What is TMD and What Causes it? Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) describes a variety of conditions that affect jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints and nerves associated with chronic facial pain. It involves conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, jaw muscles, face and head and neck pain. The pain and discomfort that is commonly caused by TMJ disorders may be severe, can either be intermittent or constant, and may last for many years. Joint sound is one of the most recognized signs of TMJ disorders. TMJ symptoms include:
* Clicking and/or difficulty when opening and closing your mouth
* Frequent headaches
* Neck and/or shoulder pain
* Sensitive teeth when no dental problems can be found
* Jaw pain or stiff jaw when chewing, biting, eating or yawning
* Earaches without an infection Trauma to the jaw or jaw joint sometimes plays a role in TMD, but in most cases, the cause of the disorder is unknown. Most experts suggest that certain tasks, either mental or physical, may cause or aggravate TMD. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, TMD symptoms may recur during stressful times, whether good or bad. Most discomfort is caused from the overuse of the muscles, specifically clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism). These excessive habits tire the jaw muscles and lead to discomfort, such as headaches or neck pain. TMJ Treatment Often, the majority of TMD cases can be treated by resting the joint, taking a non-aspirin pain reliever and practicing stress management and relaxation techniques. Most treatment for TMD is simple and can often be performed in the comfort of your own home without surgery. Control clenching and grinding during the day by sticking your tongue between your teeth, or eat soft foods and avoid chewing gum in order to relax the muscles. Many people can experience relief with minor treatment, but most severe cases may be treated with physical therapy, ice and hot packs, posture training and orthopedic appliance therapy. When necessary, stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants or antidepressants may help ease symptoms. At the end of the day, if your jaw hurts or your head is still pounding, you may be exhibiting TMD symptoms. Talk to your physician and call your Phoenix, AZ dentist to ensure that there is no serious problem if your pain continues for several days.
Dr. Stephen Conrad, dentist in Phoenix, AZ, completed his dental training at the University Of Illinois College Of Dentistry and served on the faculty at the University of Illinois in Operative Care. Dr. Conrad, Phoenix dentist, is passionate about his work and enjoys caring for his patients in an atmosphere of optimum care and excellence.
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