Jaw pain may feel like something you can put off addressing until next month, but as is the case with other health concerns, this could be a sign of a larger problem. TMJ disorder, also known as TMJD, is a chronic issue that impacts the function and comfort of your paired joints on either side of your jaw, called the temporomandibular joints. Timely treatment is an essential part to being able to live with your disorder, and putting it off could lead to a ripple effect of greater consequences. Read on to learn more about living with TMJ disorder and the issues that can occur if it’s not treated in a timely manner.
What are the Signs of TMJ Disorder?
The best way to learn whether you need to visit a dentist or TMJ specialist is to keep an eye out for common signs of dysfunction. These include:
- Lockjaw
- Jaw fatigue while chewing
- Difficulty during dental cleanings
- Ringing in the ears
- Chronic migraines or headaches
- Dizziness
- A change in bite
- Teeth grinding and clenching
- Pain or aches in or around the jaw joints
- Pain that spreads through the face, neck, and upper back
- Jaw stiffness
- Limited jaw movement
- Clicking and popping whenever you open or close your mouth
If you notice any of these, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your jaw joints and mouth to determine what the underlying cause of your symptoms is.
What Treatment Options are Out There?
If your dentist determines that you have TMJ disorder, they will be able to create a treatment plan to help ease your discomfort and prevent further harm to your teeth and jaw joints. Depending on the underlying issue creating your condition, they may recommend the following:
- Occlusal splint: These are custom made orthotic devices designed to be worn while sleeping. They shift the jaw into its ideal position to release strain and tension in the joints and their surrounding muscles, reducing symptoms.
- Equilibration/occlusal adjustment: If ill-fitting dental restorations or a change in bite is the cause of your jaw strain, your dentist can create a new, better-fitting crown or bridge, helping balance the bite.
The type of treatment your dentist recommends for you will largely depend on their findings during their evaluation.
What Will Happen if You Don’t Treat TMJ Disorder?
Seeking out TMJ treatment if you know that your jaw joints aren’t functioning properly is important. Although it’s not a life-threatening illness or medical condition, it can have a dramatic, negative impact on your quality of life. Restricted jaw motion and lockjaw can result in visits to the emergency room or make speaking and eating difficult, while chronic migraines as a result of tension-filled facial muscles can make it difficult to focus at work or function. Additionally, worsening bruxism can lead to dental damage that requires costly treatment.
By taking a proactive approach and seeking a diagnosis and treatment as soon as you notice your jaw discomfort, you can keep your quality of life in the green. The first step is always the hardest to take, but it’s not something you’ll regret, so don’t hesitate to call your dentist for an evaluation as soon as possible!
About the Practice
At DuPont Family Dentistry, our practice is led by two highly experienced dentists, Dr. Rhenu Sharma and Dr. John Ludu. With decades of training and a commitment to bettering their patients’ lives through providing high-quality dental care, they offer a comprehensive list of services in one place, including TMJ treatment. To learn more about this condition or to schedule an examination, visit our website or call 253-964-7000.