TMJ Disorder
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a highly complex, yet important joint that links your head, neck, and jaw to each other.
TMJ Disorder
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a highly complex, yet important joint that links your head, neck, and jaw to each other.
Do You Suffer with TMJ Pain?
It is the ball and socket joint located just in front of your ears, on either side of your head, and is responsible for enabling you to talk, eat, and laugh. Temporomandibular Joint disorder (TMD) is the term used to describe an incorrect alignment of your teeth and jaw.
When this occurs, patients may experience a number of painful and uncomfortable issues, including recurring headaches and migraines, as well as facial, neck and shoulder pain.
Additionally, those affected may experience limited jaw movement or even a clicking sound when they eat, yawn and speak.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Usually, this is the result of clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth over a long time, usually at night. Direct damage to the joint can also be caused by certain injuries or arthritis. TMJ disorders (or dysfunctions) such as this can cause facial pain, headaches, dizziness, and neck and back pain.
Jaw Soreness or StiffnessWaking with sore, tight or stiff muscles around your jaw may be linked to overnight clenching or grinding.
Frequent Headaches or AchesRecurring headaches, neck pain or upper back discomfort can sometimes be associated with tension around the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
Jaw ClenchingRegularly clenching your jaw, particularly during stressful periods, can place additional pressure on the jaw joints and muscles.
Difficulty Opening Your MouthFinding it uncomfortable or difficult to open your mouth fully when eating, speaking or yawning may indicate restricted jaw movement.
ArthritisArthritis can affect the temporomandibular joint just like other joints in the body, potentially causing stiffness, tenderness or reduced movement.
Sensitive or Damaged TeethTooth sensitivity, excessive wear, cracks or broken teeth may sometimes result from ongoing grinding or clenching that places extra pressure on the teeth.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
There are a number of factors which can contribute to a misaligned bite:
Missing teeth causing adjacent and opposing teeth to move out of alignment
Clenching and grinding teeth (Bruxism)
Repetitive strain on the jaw muscles (usually caused by stress)
A jaw fracture or dislocation caused by an accident or sport injury
Degenerative bone disorders such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Ongoing strain from poor posture or holding the head and neck in the same position
Trouble sleeping?
Trouble sleeping?
TMJ disorders are also associated with disturbed sleep patterns and difficulty breathing at night or Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). Treatment for TMJ disorders will vary greatly, depending on your level of discomfort and the root cause. It is best to consult your dentist, who will examine you and suggest the best form of treatment for you.
Any surgical or invasive procedures (if needed) can carry certain risks. Before proceeding with a surgical or invasive procedure, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
How Can We Help?
If you have any of the symptoms of TMJ and you’re not sure where to turn, start with a dental examination. Please don’t suffer needlessly in silence. Give Dentist WA Canning Vale a call so we can help you through the pain.
