Why Should I Seek Treatment for My TMJ?

The jaw and the skull are connected with a joint known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint). This joint enables free movement, which allows the opening and closing of the mouth. The TMJ lets you speak, chew, push your jaw back, forward, and sideways. The TMJs are complex joints, and because they are used frequently, they are often prone to damage.
 

If your jaws hurt when they move or experience a popping or clicking sound, it could be a sign that you are suffering from a TMJ disorder. Causes of jaw tightness and misalignment are not known. However, there are a few factors that are believed to be responsible for TMJ disorders. These disorders include arthritis, muscle disease, and trauma to the jaw or face, in addition to wrong or poor jaw posture and teeth grinding due to stress.
 

Some of the signs to look out for that could be an indication you are suffering from a TMJ disorder include:

• Pain while chewing.

• Stiff neck and jaw muscles.

• Headaches and migraines.

• Pain in the ears.

• Popping or cracking sound from the ear.

• Popping and/or clicking sound in the jaw.

• Difficulty opening the mouth all the way.

• Dizziness.

• Muscle spasms.

Mild jaw pains can sometimes go away on their own and may not pose serious health threats. Some people ignore the symptoms related to TMJ disorder and fail to have the problem examined comprehensively. Failing to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders can cost patients a lot of money in the long run. Severe TMJ disorders may sometimes require the patient to undergo irreversible therapies that may do little or nothing to relieve the symptoms.

Why You Should Seek TMJ Treatment

Common TMJ disorder treatment options include lifestyle changes, stress management, minimum invasive surgery, corrective jaw surgery, oral splints, and medications. These treatment options help patients to improve their overall health and quality of life. Reasons why you should seek treatment for TMJ include:

1)     To Prevent Dental Damage

Chronic teeth grinding is a major cause of TMJ disorders. When not treated, TMJ can cause further teeth grinding, which can lead to cracked teeth and dental erosion. Treating TMJ can help protect your dental functionality and smile for years to come.

2)     To Alleviate Discomfort

TMJ disorder can lead to jaw and muscle pain. It can also lead to upper back pain, shoulder stiffness, neck pain, and chronic headaches. All these symptoms are uncomfortable and can affect one’s productivity. Seeking TMJ treatment can help relieve these pains and help the body feel and function better.
 

3)     To Promote Ear Health

Serious cases of TMJ disorders can cause tinnitus, making it difficult to sleep or hear. Lack of sleep can take a toll on your overall well-being and cause fatigue. Seeking TMJ treatment can alleviate these issues.

4)     To Enjoy Meals

Patients with severe TMJ disorders may sometimes avoid hard foods due to jaw pains. This means that one is limited to the choice of foods they can eat. If not careful, a change in your diet can lead to malnutrition, causing more health problems. Treating TMJ can help you enjoy a full range of foods.

To learn more about TMJ, call Concierge Smile Boutique in Culver City at (424) 404-6400 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.