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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint located on each side of your head in front of your ears, where your lower jawbone meets your skull. This important joint enables you to eat, speak and yawn. In order to function properly, each intricate part of the joint must work together properly. When the jaw is misaligned, both the hard and soft tissues are affected and many physiological problems can result. In a number of cases, these symptoms are the result of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, also referred to as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) or MPD (myofascial pain dysfunction). TMJ / TMD is a chronic degenerative disease that affects millions of people and often takes years to develop. People who suffer from TMJ disorder have an imbalance in the jaw-to-skull relationship, which is caused by a bad bite (malocclusion). Each case of TMJ disorder is different, ranging in severity from person to person. Some people may only experience mild discomfort that subsides on its own, while others may deal with TMJ problems for many years. Do I have TMJ Disorder? Many people with TMJ disorder complain of headaches, ear pain and limited ability to open the mouth. Symptoms will vary from patient to patient depending on the severity of their condition and the cause of their discomfort. TMJ disorder symptoms include:
• Dull, aching pain in the jaw joint
• Neck, shoulder and facial pain
• Locking of the jaw
• Pain or ringing in the ears
• Hearing loss
• Dizziness and vision problems
• Uncomfortable or uneven bite
• Swelling of the face and mouth on the affected side
• Unexplained morning headaches
• Limited jaw mobility, especially when chewing or yawning
• Burning Tongue Alleviating Symptoms with Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatment for a TMJ problem will depend on the cause. Arthritis, trauma, a dislocated joint or disk displacement are contributing factors known to trigger TMJ disorder. With simple lifestyle changes, your TMJ symptoms may subside on their own. Avoid opening your mouth wide, eat a diet of soft foods and apply a warm compress on the area of pain. When pain persists or worsens, you will want to seek professional care. In many cases, TMJ disorder is the result of malocclusion and jaw misalignment. One specialized field of dentistry known as neuromuscular dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on the correction of jaw misalignment. A neuromuscular dentist can determine the optimal position of the jaw to correct the malocclusion. This reduces stress from the jaw muscles and helps eliminate symptoms of TMJ disorder. Your dentist in Pasadena has developed his own appliances to treat this syndrome non-surgically as well as performing permanent reconstruction and rehabilitation. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, visit your dentist in Pasadena for an evaluation. Left untreated, symptoms will likely progress. Your neuromuscular dentist can help you determine the cause of your TMJ problem and recommend the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Since 1970 Dr. H. Robert Stender, Pasadena comprehensive dentist, has been offering comprehensive family-oriented dentistry. Specializing in all phases of dental care and treatment, including Pasadena sleep apnea, Invisalign and CEREC, Dr. Stender is dedicated to enhancing the smiles of every patient he serves.
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