What is TMJ?
TMJ or temporomandibular joint works like a sliding hinge. It’s the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to talk, eat, drink and much more. TMJ syndrome refers to pain or disorders that affect this joint.
What are the causes?
Common causes of TMJ syndrome include injuries to your teeth or jaw. If you have misaligned teeth or jaw or if you grind your teeth, that could contribute to your TMJ problems. Stress, arthritis, gum chewing and poor posture are also possible factors, the MedicineNet says.
What are the symptoms?
Be familiar with the signs and symptoms so you’ll know enough to seek out TMJ treatment in Brandon FL right away.
- Do you have pain or tenderness in your jaw?
- Do you have pain in one of your TMJ joints or both?
- Is there aching pain in and around your ear?
- Do you feel pain when you chew?
- Do you have a locked jaw?
- Do you find it hard to open and close your mouth entirely?
These are all signs that you may be suffering from a serious TMJ condition.
What kind of treatments work?
Some TMJ syndromes can be treated with home remedies like ice packs to lessen the inflammation in the joints. Avoid chewing gums and learn gentle stretches or massage for the jaw and neck. Find ways to better deal with stress or to prevent stressful situations.
When do I see a doctor?
If the pain isn’t going away or if the pain or tenderness in your jaw, face or joints worsen, then there’s no time to waste. Look for a dental specialist that provides TMJ treatment in Brandon FL. Find someone you’re comfortable with. Excellent credentials and qualifications are good reasons to pick a dentist but so is finding one you’re at ease with.
