What is TMJ?
A disorder where you have painful jaw joints. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint dysfunction. This can be a temporary issue or cause severe pain. In extreme cases of TMJ, you may require dental surgery. If you are experiencing jaw pain, it is best to visit the dentist to uncover the underlying cause and determine the best solution to relieve your symptoms.
Cambrian Dental knows all about TMJ and the proper treatments options. Your dentist will recommend the best treatment for your situation however, it is beneficial for you to become more informed about your case. Know the risks and symptoms of TMJ to better understand when you need to get dental help.
Risks Associated with TMJ:
- Arthritis
- Infection Arthritis: TMJ might result from this infection directly since the area is inflamed and jaw movement becomes limited and painful. Your dental x-rays may not show early signs of TMJ but if left untreated, can present bone destruction.
- Traumatic Arthritis: TMJ can occur as a result of acute injury to your jaw causing pain, tenderness and limited motion. Diagnosis is typically based on comparing x-rays previously taken by your dentist.
- Osteoarthritis: TMJ from Osteoarthritis occurs as a stiff, grating or mild pain. X-rays taken by the dentist might show flattening and lipping of the condyle (rounded perturbance at the end of some of your bones).
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: TMJ as a result of rheumatoid arthritis might result in pain, limited movement and swelling. In children, this kind of TMJ can cause facial deformity. X-rays taken at your dentist may not indicate negative signs early on but bone destruction can result in an anterior open-bite deformity.
- Secondary Degenerative Arthritis: This type of arthritis causes TMJ to limit the opening of your mouth resulting in painful jaw movements and tenderness. X-rays at the dentist typically show condylar flattening, lipping, spurring, or erosion. TMJ with secondary degenerative arthritis usually only affects one side of your joints.
- Jaw injury
- Connective tissue disease
- Long-term grinding or clenching of teeth
What are some symptoms of TMJ?
- Jaw getting stuck in an open or closed mouth position
- A tired feeling in your face
- Trouble chewing or an uncomfortable bite where it seems your upper and lower teeth are not fitting together as they should
- Swelling on the side of your face
- Problems opening your mouth
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, or in or around your ear
- Clicking, popping or grating of the jaw joint when opening or closing your mouth, or chewing
You do not have to suffer from TMJ pain. Talk to your dentist to find a solution to relieve you of your discomfort.
