What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ for short) is a mechanism of the jaw that acts as a hinge, connecting the front of your skull to the jaw, allowing for up and down and side to side movements. This joint allows for vital functions such as eating and talking. The TMJ and surrounding areas can become damaged due to stressors put on the joint. Prolonged strain or damage caused to the TMJ can result in a condition known as temporomandibular joint syndrome (also known as TMJ or TMD). Treating TMJ and its symptoms can restore the quality of your life, and your dentist can help set up a treatment plan that works for you.
What causes TMJ?
TMJ can be brought on by a number of factors, these include:
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth (known together as simply, bruxism), often times a side effect of general stress
• Arthritis
• Physical injury to the joint or surrounding areas
• Chewing gum
Treating TMJ
In treating TMJ, there are a number of options. An assessment and diagnosis is necessary for your dentist to determine which plan suits you best. Once diagnosed by a dentist, they can discuss treatment options with you. Visit the practice of Dr. Brian Hokanson for an examination and a treatment plan. Treatment may include:
• Over the counter (OTC) pain-relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen. Your dentist may prescribe a stronger pain-reliever or muscle relaxant if you aren’t finding relief with OTC pain medicine.
• Splints (also called night guards) can be prescribed to mitigate the effects of bruxism
• TMJ massages to ease discomfort
• Injections, like Botox, may also be recommended to ease jaw tension and pain.
• In certain circumstances, a dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon to treat the disorder.
Benefits of treating TMJ
TMJ can be painful and consequently distracting. Finding the treatment that works for you when it comes to TMJ and related symptoms has a number of benefits, including:
Restoring comfort
Those with TMJ often have trouble performing tasks as simple as eating. TMJ may cause patients to restrict their diet and in some cases not eat at all. By starting treatment for TMJ, you can get back to enjoying eating, and being healthier overall.
Addressing discomfort
TMJ is often painful and irritating for those suffering from it. Unfortunately, mouth pain is usually coupled with headaches, ear pain, neck pain, and upper back pain. Many times, those with TMJ also suffer from chronic ear pain and ringing, which can also be addressed with TMJ treatment. With the proper treatment plan, you can get back to living a more comfortable, healthy life.
Mitigating chances of further damage
Tooth grinding and clenching (bruxism) is often linked with TMJ and can lead to serious dental damage. Chronic bruxism can lead to the grinding down of teeth (which can impair your ability to eat and speak), cracked teeth, and even decay. Treatment of bruxism is two-fold, it mitigates TMJ related pain, and can prevent against serious tooth damage.
Experiencing TMJ symptoms? Contact the office of Dr. Brian Hokanson, DDS, and our experienced staff can help you get your quality of life back.