When it comes to oral health, many people think about preventing cavities and gum disease. However, many things can affect the integrity of your smile. Temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ or TMD, happens when a person places too much stress on their jaw joints. This is something that is done subconsciously due to factors like genetics, injury, bruxism, and more. This problem is very common and affects millions of people, but it should not be ignored. In today’s blog, Newhall Dental Arts of Newhall, California, is here to explain how your dentist can help you with your TMJ dysfunctions.
The Causes Of TMJ
There is no singular cause for this disorder. This problem can stem from other disorders, such as bruxism, where a patient chronically grinds their teeth, over time placing too much pressure on their joints. It may also be due to genetics, injury, or arthritis.
Many people with this disorder may hear a popping sound in their jaw, tension, sensitivity when eating, or headaches. If these problems happen occasionally, they can cause discomfort. However, if they are occurring constantly, it can become cause for concern.
If You Ignore Your Symptoms
Because this is a common problem, patients may not recognize it as a disorder. You may be tempted to put off treatment and try to live with the side effects. TMD problems can cause an array of issues including your dental health, sleep quality, and more.
Over time, you may experience problems like your jaw locking, which can cause severe pain. It may also be uncomfortable to eat certain foods or cause problems with speaking. TMJ is also often linked with problems like bruxism, which can wear down your teeth and make you more at risk of tooth decay or gum disease.
Finding A Solution
TMD can be due to a variety of factors. Once you mention your concerns to your dentist, they may be able to determine the cause. Then, an appropriate treatment plan can be created to address the problem. Some patients may benefit from a combination of physical therapy targeting their facial muscles and jaw and an oral appliance. An oral appliance can be used to help support your joints while you sleep. This tool looks similar to a retainer but has additional support. This is a simple solution that can bring relief to patients without invasive surgeries.
It is important to address the problem as soon as possible so that your symptoms are treated early. Treating this disorder early can bring relief and can decrease the need for more invasive treatments down the line.
Come In For A Consultation
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to TMJ disorder, speak with your dentist today. You can schedule an appointment by calling your Newhall, CA, dentist, Dr. Tajik, at (661) 259-7760.