Are you dealing with chronic face pain, jaw stiffness, or neck discomfort that just won't go away? You might be suffering from a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. These conditions are not only common, but they can also severely impact your day-to-day life. As many as 10 million people in the United States may be affected by problems with their TMJ.
Your jaw is a complex and intricate system, consisting of two temporomandibular joints that connect your lower jaw to the temporal bone in your skull. These joints, along with their associated muscles, ligaments, and tendons, work together to enable a wide range of oral function - including chewing, speaking, yawning, and all other movements of the jaw. The TMJ is particularly noteworthy for its dual hinge-like and sliding motions, making it one of the most complicated joints in the entire body.
TMJ disorders can manifest in various ways, and they are often categorized into three main types:
Certain factors may increase your risk of developing a TMJ disorder, including long-term teeth grinding or bruxism, jaw injuries, and various types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The symptoms of these conditions can vary from person to person, with potential manifestations ranging from earaches, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), headaches, back and neck pain, vertigo, muscle spasms, and joint tenderness to jaw pain, popping or grating sounds during jaw movement, jaw locking, and limited jaw movement. Depending on the individual, a TMJ disorder may resolve within a relatively short period, while for others, it could persist despite extensive treatment.
The discomfort and dysfunction associated with a TMJ disorder can be frustrating, but rest assured that help is available. At our practice, we offer the diagnostic tools and therapeutic care necessary to assist individuals struggling with TMJ problems in regaining comfort and better oral health. By tailoring our approach to each patient's unique needs, we can provide personalized treatment options such as occlusal equilibration, night guards or other oral appliances, restorative care, or orthodontic intervention. Our ultimate goal is to alleviate your pain and restore normal function to your jaw.
While dealing with a TMJ disorder can be challenging, remember that you don't have to face this issue alone. At our office, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of your jaw health and guiding you towards lasting relief from pain and dysfunction. If you suspect that you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder, don't hesitate to reach out to us for an evaluation and discuss potential treatment options. Together, we can help you reclaim your comfort and enjoy a more fulfilling life, free of the constraints imposed by jaw discomfort.
For more information on TMJ disorders or to schedule a consultation at our office, please call us today! Our dedicated staff is always ready to assist you in any way they can. Thank you for choosing Dynamic Dental Wellness as your trusted dental care provider.
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