TMJ Disorder: What Is It and What Are the Most Common Symptoms?

 The temporomandibular joint is an essential part connecting the jaw and the skull bones of the temporal. It acts as a hinge and helps your jaw to move on all four sides (up, down, left, and right). You can do the activities of eating, chewing, talking, yawning, etc because of the temporomandibular joint.  

The issues related to the jaw and muscles in this area are termed temporomandibular disorders (TMD) or TMJ Disorders. 

 

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is caused due to problems in the jaw muscles or the parts in the joints such as disk or cartilage. The erosion, misalignment, injury, arthritis, heavy blow, tense muscles due to stress, etc can cause TMD. 

 

Other things such as the habit of clenching the teeth or grinding them can be the reasons for TMD. It can also be due to genetics or connective tissue diseases.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

It can cause pain and swell on the single side or both sides of the face. The pain may occur in other areas around the jaw such as the jaw joint, teeth, near the ears, cheeks, even neck, and upper shoulders. Normal activities like eating or talking may also cause pain. 

 

You may hear the sounds of clicking, grating, popping when you open or close your mouth. The jaws may get stuck or locked when the mouth is open or closed. The mouth and face are uncomfortable and tired. Also, the teeth may not fit properly when closed. You may get headaches and feel dizzy. Other symptoms are ringing sounds in the ears (tinnitus) and even hearing issues.

TMJ Disorder Diagnosis for Treatment Option

A thorough physical examination and analysis of medical history is conducted to determine the patient-specific TMJ Disorder. The dentist will check the area of pain or tenderness in the area of jaw joints. Also, he/she will check the functioning and sounds (if any) of the jaw by making you open and close your mouth. Further, the facial muscles and biting are examined.

 

For the internal checkup of jaws, teeth, and temporomandibular joints, he/she will conduct tests and reports such as X-rays, MRI, and/or CT scans. This will show if your joints are in the correct position and help with their bones examination.

 

You will need to consult an expert orthodontist for TMJ disorder treatment in Virginia Beach in case of severity. You may need surgery for the treatment at the extreme level of this disorder. Seeing a dentist can help you determine the treatment plan discussed further.

TMJ disorder treatment in Virginia beach

Only 50-60% of people suffering from TMJ disorder take the treatment. And 15% of these untreated people develop chronic TMJ disorder and painful side effects.


The minor TMJ joint pain treatment can be done with at-home remedies. You can practice the warm or cold packs, simple jaw exercises suggested by the dentist, and eating soft foods cut in small pieces. Avoiding forceful & wide-open jaw movements can be helpful. Also, you must avoid the clenching and grinding of your teeth. 

 

You can ask your dentist if you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, or over-the-counter medications for muscle pain and swelling. Also, you may ask if you need a massage or other stress-relieving therapies.

 

You can go for the advanced TMJ dental treatment at Virginia beach in case of severe TMJ disorder pain and other issues. Professional dentistry will carry out the complete checkup and give you the right treatment advice. This may include surgery, dental work, splint or night guard, medications, or any other TMJ disorder treatment. Call the TMD experienced dentistry today at (757) 464-6228.


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