Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Treatment

The temporomandibular joint, more commonly called TMJ, is the joint at the base of the skull that connects the lower and upper jaw. This joint's ability to facilitate talking, eating, and yawning makes it a crucial part of daily life, so understanding its function can help you value your TMJ health and recognise when issues may arise.

Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ problems are:

• Pain in the jaw
• Headaches
• Facial aches
• Limited movement of the lower jaw
• Pain or aching around the ear and jaw
• Clicking sounds
• Muscle spasms
• Locking of the jaw
• Difficulty chewing and pain when chewing
• Difficulty opening the mouth wide
• Clicking or grating noise when opening the mouth or chewing

If you are suffering from painful symptoms related to TMJ and have limited movement of the jaw, you should seek advice from your dentist for treatment options.

What causes TMJ?

This condition is often brought about by stress, tensing of the jaw, grinding and clenching of the teeth while sleeping.
Some potential causes of the disease include genetics, hormones, low-level infections, autoimmune diseases, trauma, and clenching or grinding of the teeth. Diagnosis and evaluation of such conditions are performed by dentists experienced in TMJ problems and treatments.

Grinding and Clenching

Clenching during your sleep can be the cause of TMJ-related pain. Grinding your teeth can be caused by TMJ and may cause further problems with misalignment of the jaw and damage to the teeth.

Treatment for TMJ

Some common TMJ treatments are jaw splints, bite plates, and Bite Adjustments. Mouth guards and plates can also prevent teeth grinding and clenching. Additionally, muscle-relaxing medications, physical therapy, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help relieve TMJ symptoms. Your dentist can evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective treatment options tailored to you.

Do you suffer from TMJ disorders? Contact your dentist today to get a personalised evaluation and support for your treatment options.