Going to the dentist can include more than simple teeth cleanings, flossing, and advice concerning better oral health. At times, a trip to the dentist can result in a thorough examination of the mouth to uncover underlying pain and plans for proactive treatment, and in some severe cases, surgical procedures.
Rominger Dental is led by a team of highly trained specialists equipped to serve any dental problem. Read on to learn about TMJ disorders and how we can help!
What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition of the jaw that affects the surrounding joints, muscles, and ligaments. It can be caused by “trauma, an improper bite, arthritis, or wear and tear. Common symptoms include jaw tenderness, headaches, earaches, and facial pain.”
The TMJ enables the mouth to open and close, which is necessary for daily tasks such as eating, drinking, and talking––all of which induce a level of stress to the jaw. A disorder of the joint could prove difficult to perform these tasks long-term.
Common Signs of TMJ
There are a few things everyone should know about TMJ disorder in order to act in a timely manner.
Jaw makes a noise
If you notice popping, clicking, or grinding coming from your jaw, particularly when chewing food, yawning, or talking loudly, it may be a result of the joint going in and out of position.
Pain in the jaw
As with most disorders, pain is a fairly common symptom of TMJ disorder. The pain could occur when chewing, talking, or a number of acts that involve the opening of the mouth. TMJ disorder is often associated with tenderness or swelling in the jaw region of the mouth––sometimes including achiness in the ears or headaches.
Difficulty opening the mouth
TMJ disorder makes it difficult to open and close the mouth normally, resulting in lockjaw in severe cases. As the condition worsens, the ability to open and close will follow.
Trouble chewing
Of course, if you experience any of the above, it is expected that someone suffering from TMJ disorder might struggle to chew and swallow food as normal.
Arthritis
While arthritis is not a direct cause of TMJ disorder, it will increase one’s chances of developing it over time.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a term that describes hearing noises that aren’t from an external source, including internal buzzing, ringing, clicking, hissing, roaring, or humming.
Previous jaw injury
Sufferers of TMJ disorder commonly experience pain as a result of previous jaw injuries.
What Should I Do?
If you think any of the above is affecting the health of your jaw, you should seek immediate dental care from your local dentist.
A dentist will have the ability to evaluate the severity of the condition and recommend potential treatments. They may do this by a simple oral examination of the mouth and listening for abnormalities in the jaw, as well as an MRI of the inner jaw region.
Procedures may include a dental splint for the jaw, various therapeutic treatments, or surgery. TMJ disorder is no cause for panic––your dentist will recommend and implement a number of prognostic treatments to alleviate the discomfort you are currently experiencing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
At Rominger Dental, our primary goal is to make every single patient feel at ease. We know that no one looks forward to going to the dentist, but we go above and beyond to make your dental experience as pleasant as possible.
With our capable team of dentists, we know just what to do to prevent, manage, and correct dental pain.
Are you in need of TMJ dental care? Call us today at (304)842-2375 or schedule a future appointment at romingerdental.com.