If you experience chronic discomfort such as headaches or earaches, it could be a sign that you have TMJ dysfunction (also known as TMJ or TMD). Genetics, injuries, misalignment, and other factors can cause your jaw joints to not hinge properly, leading to this disorder. Your team at Avon Dental Care in Avon, OH, may be able to help diagnose this disorder and find a treatment that can relieve your symptoms. In our blog today, we’re here to talk about what you need to know about TMD.
Common Causes Of The Disorder
Several factors, including genetics and injuries, can cause TMJ dysfunction. An injury to your jaw or head can misalign your joints and cause TMD. When your joints become misaligned from the injury, they may not properly line up and can make movement limited. Arthritis could also cause this dysfunction because it can damage the cartilage within the joints. As a result, you may experience inflammation, discomfort, and limited mobility. Genetics and your natural anatomy could also increase your risk of this disorder, though orthodontic treatment may be able to help reverse the condition.
How TMJ Affects Your Health
TMJ dysfunction can take a significant toll on your health and overall well-being. Since your jaw in this state has excessive amounts of pressure placed on it, you may experience chronic pain. Daily headaches, migraines, earaches, and more can negatively impact your quality of life. The chronic discomfort can make it difficult for you to concentrate on tasks throughout the day and could even increase feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, your oral health may suffer, as many patients grind their teeth chronically to relieve the pressure from their TMD. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause your teeth to become rapidly worn down, which can lead to sensitivity, discomfort, increased risks of cavities, and more. If you frequently experience discomfort around your jaw, difficulty chewing, a popping sound, or other signs, talk to your dentist today for a diagnosis.
Effective Treatments For TMD
The first step in treating TMD is seeing your dentist. During your appointment, they will evaluate your symptoms and thoroughly examine your smile before making a diagnosis. A combination of treatments, including jaw relaxation exercises, physical therapy, and the use of an oral appliance, can often relieve TMJ. The oral appliance will be custom-created to fit your smile. It helps position your jaw correctly while you are sleeping to improve your symptoms and may even be used to alleviate sleep apnea problems. After a few weeks of using your oral appliance, you may begin to notice a decrease in your symptoms.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team
The team at Avon Dental Care in Avon, OH, is here to help you relieve symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. To learn more about treatment, call 440-937-2273 today.