Things You Should Know About Tmj - Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome

TMJ is actually a chronic inflammation of the connecting joint from the skull to the mandible

. It can cause not only severe pain, but also may affect you both orally and neurologically. That means that you may have dental difficulties as well as other problems which will be seen in the areas around the joint, ear, jaw, and possibly the neck.

Some of the symptoms of TMJ may be easily confused with other problems. People who are suffering from TMJ may have problems with biting and chewing. They may also hear a clicking or popping sound when they open and close their mouth. The pain experienced may be either aching or dull and cover the entire face or a portion of it. They may experience having headaches, ear aches, and pain in or around the jaw area. Opening the mouth may be difficult or even impossible at times.

There are many possible causes of TMJ. Sometimes oral problems, such as tooth loss, teeth that shift, and having your teeth not meet properly, can all contribute to TMJ problems. Often, the first incidence of TMJ is reported after having oral surgery, such as having wisdom teeth removed. Other common causes or contributing factors to TMJ symptoms include having trauma in the area, chewing gum excessively, nail biting, having some form of degenerative joint disease, and not having any overbite.

There are some treatments using medications that may help the pain associated with TMJ. Your dentist may also have some ideas about treating TMJ, and may suggest that you use something such as a night-guard or bite-plate. These are available over-the-counter, but if you are going to use one you may have more success if you are fitted for one at office of your dentist. Another treatment that your dentist may suggest is having your bite adjusted by using a treatment called occlusal adjustment, which consists of grinding the teeth so that your bite is properly adjusted. These treatments have not proven to be effective for everyone and may result in having an irreversible oral problem.

There are other dental treatments available for TMJ, including reconstructive dentistry, orthodontic procedures, and using instruments which may help correct any bite problem. Medications for pain are available both over-the-counter and as a prescription. Your doctor and dentist should both evaluate you to determine what the cause is of your problem, what the best course of action to help with the jaw, ear, and tooth pain and discomfort is, and whether you should be treated orally or medically for this problem.

by: Penelope Stone

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