Understanding Tmj And Tmd - What Is The Source Of Your Pain?
Many people often misinterpret the terms "TMJ" and "TMD." The abbreviation "TMJ"
stands for the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). Your lower jaw and skull are connected by a number of muscles and ligaments that function in harmony with each other as long as the lower jaw is in the correct position. Normal joint function occurs when a piece of cartilage acts as a cushion or shock absorber between the two bones.
So what is TMD?
TMD is the temporomandibular disorder, which is the condition referring to a joint that is not normal. The position of your teeth can affect the position of your jaw joints. When functioning properly, the ball and socket joints do not actually touch because a thin disc of cartilage rides between them. The disc acts as a cushion and allows the joint to move smoothly. If your bite is not right, as in cases where you have a deep bite, lower jaw is too far back, narrow upper jaw or upper front teeth are crooked and tipped backwards, this can cause the jaw to become dislocated.
Typically, your cartilage (protective disc) is displaced forward and no longer serves as a cushion between the lower jaw and the skill, which can eventually lead to the lower jaw rubbing against the bony socket causing osteoarthritis. Mild displacements can cause a clicking or popping sound in the jaw joint, which is an indication that the jaw joints have become dislocated. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid allowing the problem to progressively get worse.
More severe displacement can be extremely painful, eventually causing permanent joint damage. If you have an unstable bite, it can cause both jaw joint displacement and muscle strain and pain. You may also experience an array of seemingly unrelated symptoms, including:
*Headaches
*Neck aches
*Ringing in the ears
*Stuffiness in the ears
*Pain behind the eyes
*Ear pain
*Shoulder and lower back pain
*Dizziness and fainting
*Difficulty swallowing
*Tingling of the fingers and hands
What Causes TMD?
The temporomandibular joints are among the most utilized joints in the body. This is due to their prolonged use during chewing, talking, singing, yawning, etc. TMD means that the lower jaw is no longer in proper alignment with the upper jaw, which causes you extreme pain. Some of the most common causes of TMD are: the lower jaw is too far back, unbalanced muscles and trauma. Your lower jaw can be too far back if you have a deep dental overbite, your upper teeth have tipped backwards, or you have missing back teeth. Unbalanced muscles occur due to clenching or grinding habits, and can even be caused by bad posture. Additionally, trauma due to automobile accidents, whiplash, intubation procedures in hospitals and other trauma to the head or jaw can negatively impact your temporomandibular joint.
Understanding Treatment Options
When you experience pain in your jaw, it is important to visit your dentist in London, Dr. Brock Rondeau. At your appointment you will complete a discussion and examination of the affected area. Dr. Rondeau will explore the pattern of jaw movement to detect sounds and tenderness to gentle pressure. Further diagnostic testing is indicated when the presence of jaw joint dysfunction is suspected.
Since your teeth, jaw joints and muscles are all involved treatment for TMD will vary. Typically, your treatment will require several phases. The first goal of treatment is to relieve the muscle spasm and pain as well as to establish normal range of motion of the lower jaw. Next, your dentist will work to correct the way that your teeth fit together through a temporary device known as an orthotic or splint that is worn over the teeth until the bite is stabilized.
If you are experiencing pain or notice sounds in your jaw, talk to Dr. Rondeau for further examination and treatment. Remember, pain is not normal and should be treated immediately.
by: Gen Wright
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