subject: Identifying And Treating A Tmj Disorder [print this page] The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jawbone with the skull. It is located on each side of the head, slightly in front of the ears, and is responsible for the ability to chew, talk and yawn. Many cases of TMJ disorders, which can cause pain and soreness in the jaw and face, can be treated with self remedies. To determine whether or not you are suffering from TMJ disorder, it's important to recognize the symptoms have a basic understanding of its causes and treatment options. Below, learn more about TMJ disorder.
Symptoms:
Signs and symptoms linked to TMJ disorder include headaches, sore jaw muscles, ear pain, clicking sounds, chewing problems, and difficulty in moving your jaw. Be sure to see a dentist if you experience any of these symptoms in order to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Causes:
There is not one definite cause of TMJ disorder. Some symptoms may be related to lifestyle issues, such as stress or lack of sleep, which can lead to teeth clenching and grinding. Strains on the TMJ occur due to poor posture, while other causes may include injury to the jaw, certain forms of arthritis and recent dental procedures.
Treatment:
If you suffer from TMJ disorder, your doctor may recommend taking muscle relaxants or antidepressants to help treat the pain. If your symptoms are caused by grinding or clenching your teeth at night, you may have to wear a bite guard when you go to sleep. Stress-related TMJ disorder can be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, which can help you relax and loosen the pressure that occurs in your face and jaw. For more serious cases that don't respond to milder forms of treatment, procedures such as anthrocentesis (involves irrigating the joint to remove debris and inflamed fluids) or surgery may be required as a last resort.
Home Remedies:
Making changes to certain lifestyle habits can also help to treat the pain and discomfort of TMJ disorder. Maintain good jaw posture to avoid frequent clenching or grinding, and try to keep your jaw relaxed throughout the day. Minimize the use of your jaw by eating soft foods and cutting up foods into smaller pieces, and avoid actions that may intensify symptoms, such as chewing gum. Applying moist heat or cold packs to your jaw can also help relieve pain. The important thing is to relax and to contact your dentist or doctor if the pain persists.
