TMJ There are countless different and specific oral and dental health conditions that cause varying amounts of discomfort and pain. This runs the scale from mild or dull pain to chronic and excruciating. A common condition that quite a few patients suffer from is something known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD can cause tremendous pain in the jaw and sometimes, the teeth and gums, depending on how serious the case is. Our experienced dentists here at Magnolia Family Dental are well versed in helping patients who are struggling with this condition and who are looking for a solution. If you are struggling with jaw pain, please do not hesitate to give us a call so we can schedule an evaluation for you. How Does TMJ/TMD Affect People Who Suffer From It?TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint. This is what attaches the jawbone to the skull. There are a number of moving parts which work together to function as a hinge for the jaw. If any of those parts are damaged or eroded, particularly the tiny disk which absorbs minor impacts, it can cause anywhere from mild discomfort to severe pain. It may make it difficult to chew, swallow, drink, or even speak. It can lead to grinding of the teeth and constant jaw clenching. People who suffer from nighttime teeth grinding often develop sleep disorders as a result as well. There are a number of other symptoms which may also appear. What Causes It?In most cases, the root cause of any one individuals' TMJ or TMD is not determined. Although this is not always true, it is in most circumstances. However, there are a number of general causes to which it may be attributed to as a whole. These include arthritis in the joints' cartilage, damage from some type of impact, long term bruxism, a random jaw injury, or numerous other possibilities. Are Treatments Available?The good news is that while no medical treatment or therapy for any condition can ever be guaranteed one hundred percent, there are a number of methods that have shown to be quite effective in managing and sometimes reducing the impact of TMJ for those who suffer from it. Depending on your personal circumstances, you may be a candidate for a variety of treatment options. These include various medications which can reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles and surrounding tissue, as well as muscle relaxers which can help to ease the tension of a constantly clenching jaw. Another option might be therapies such as using temporary or overnight dental appliances to hinder bruxism. Counseling is also advisable if there is reason to believe that the problem may be psychological. TMJ and TMD are problems that no individual should be forced to live with. The chronic and continual pain is something that many people have reported to be the most intense of their lives. Give our dental health specialists here at Magnolia Family Dental a call at (662) 929-0080 today to find out how we may be able to help with your condition. |
Office:1305 Church Rd E Southaven, MS 38671-9711 Phone:(662) 929-0080 Hours:Mon: 10am - 7pm Tue - Thur: 8am - 5pm Fri: 8am - 12pm |
