TMJ Disorders
If you experience sore jaws or discomfort while chewing, talking, or even yawning, these could be signs of a TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to the bones of your skull. This joint makes your mouth move up and down when you talk or chew and controls when you move your jaw from side to side.
When you encounter problems with your jaw or mouth muscles, it may be from temporomandibular joint disorder.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
There can be numerous causes, but in general, issues originate from problems with the jaw and head muscles or with parts of the jaw. This syndrome often results from injury or inflammation to the temporomandibular joint.
Common causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Injury to the face or back of the head
- Arthritis
- Movement of the disc between the ball and socket of the joint
- Bad posture
- Jaw or teeth misalignment
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?
Discomfort in the jaw or face muscles is the most common symptom, but TMJ can have many effects, such as:
- Pain in the mouth when speaking, chewing, or yawning
- Pain in or around the ear or temples
- Discomfort in neck and shoulders
- Jaws that “pop” or gets stuck when opening or closing
- Grinding or grating sounds when chewing
- Swelling of the face
- Teeth do not fit together correctly when biting down
- Headaches, toothaches, earaches, or ringing of the ears
How to Treat TMJ Disorders?
First, you will need an examination to determine where the problems lie. We will check for signs of discomfort during the physical exam, listen for pops or grating sounds when you open or close your mouth, and check teeth and jaw muscles alignment.
Depending on your condition, treatments might include custom made nightguards or dental splints.
Our team at North Bramalea Dental is ready to help you! We will determine the cause of your TMJ disorder and walk you through the best treatment options for your case.
We want you to have a healthy, pain-free smile. Make an appointment with us today!
Don’t put off your bi-annual check-up and cleaning. Book an appointment today with North Bramalea Dental and take control of your oral health.