subject: Relieving the Pain of TMJ Disorder in Woodlands Texas [print this page] Relieving the Pain of TMJ Disorder in Woodlands Texas
So many people suffer from TMJ Disorder some estimates suggest over ten million people! Many of these folks deal with the headaches and pain of TMJ without knowing what is wrong or how to find relief. They just pop some Ibuprofen every morning and try to get through the day.
The primary symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
chronic headaches or migraines
constant neck and shoulder pain or stiffness
sore muscles around your jaws
clenching and pain that worsens with stress or tooth clenching
jaw clicking, popping, grating, catching or locking when you open your mouth
pain when opening your mouth, eating, or yawning
teeth that don't touch when biting down
Difficulty using front teeth to bite or tear food
sensitive, loose, broken or worn teeth
I really don't think people should have to live like this. That's why I focus a large part of my practice here in Woodlands Texas on treating and relieving TMJ disorder without surgery. Surgery is reserved only for the most severe cases such as when the jaw won't open or is completely dislocated.
What Causes TMJ Syndrome?
Though the causes of TMJ vary, I think that the stresses of daily life are big contributors. Many people clench or grind their teeth when they are stressed. Most people who grind their teeth, grind at night and are usually not even aware of it. Both clenching and grinding can begin as side effects of certain medications, especially antidepressants and other psychiatric medications. Clenching and grinding can also be complications of Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease.
Whatever the cause, Bruxism can have devastating effects, not only on your TMJ joint, but also on your teeth, causing worn, flattened cracked teeth; increased tooth sensitivity; abfraction, or loss of enamel at the gumline; damaged cheek and tongue tissue and chronic headache. If your teeth are looking worn or are sensitive, or if you notice indentations or a scalloped look at the edges of your tongue and you live in the Woodlands area of Texas, please give me a call.
What Can you Do to Help Me?
Once we evaluate and confirm TMJ disorder, we work with you to bring your jaw and muscles back into their proper harmony and function. I often recommend biofeedback or physical therapy to help you learn how to stop clenching and relax your jaw. I'll usually also prescribe a splint or orthotic device to relax your muscles and reduce pain. A night guard is an ideal solution if you grind your teeth while you are sleeping. These clear devices are custom made from molds of your teeth and fit comfortably over top or bottom teeth to keep your teeth apart, protecting and keeping them in their optimal position.
If you have chronic pain and need help finding relief, or if you have any questions about TMJ syndrome of bruxism, please give me a call at 281.681.9442 or visit my website, www.shirleycagledds.com.
