The temporomandibular joint is often called by the acronym TMJ. As a structural part of your skull and jawbone, your teeth rely on your TMJ for movement and structural soundness. For that reason, pain in the TMJ is cause for concern. Pain can occur in this area because of:
- Genetics; depending on the makeup of your body, given your ancestry, you may be predisposed to TMJ pain.
- The temporomandibular joint may experience some wear over the course of your life. This is often found in older patients, although conditions like gout can develop TMJ pain in patients.
- Tightening the jaw due to stress can lead to TMJ. Over time, clenching wears on the joints, leading to pain.
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth can result in severe TMJ pain.
- Accidents and traumas which damage the jaw and skull can lead to TMJ pain.
How can I relieve the pain caused by TMJ?
There are noninvasive ways to treat TMJ pain, and more advanced methods:
- Eating softer foods is known to help quite a lot.
- Applying hot and cold compresses can assist in pain reduction for the short term.
- A dentist may recommend you take medication for TMK pain, which can be bought over the counter or with a prescription.
- Self-care and stress reducing activities and hobbies can assist in the reduction of TMJ pain
- Certain exercises may reduce your issues with your TMJ. These are given to you by a dentist, or recommended physical therapist.
- A night guard is mouthpiece worn to protect and cover your top and bottom teeth. This can help keep teeth and the jaw in place, and avoid in-sleep grinding
- If TMJ pain is the result of a dental issue, a number of cosmetic procedures can help reduce pain, including crowns and dentures.
Lifetime Dental Excellence is the go-to service provider for TMJ pain solutions for patients in Clawson, Royal Oak, Troy, Madison Heights, Berkley, Birmingham, Huntington Woods, and the surrounding areas. We employ, as well as work with, TMJ to deliver you the best treatments possible.
How do I know if I have TMJ?
If you believe you are suffering from TMJ, contact our office for a consultation with one of our experts.
The following pain and issues may include but are not limited to:
- Pain when opening the mouth
- Facial soreness or swelling
- Tenderness in the teeth and mouth
- Problems eating and speaking
- Jaw discomfort and locking
If anything on the above lists is showing up in your day-to-day life, contact Lifetime Dental Excellence immediately. Bring up the issues in your next dental checkup, or schedule a visit even sooner than expected if these problems are present in your life. X-rays and scans can be used to find if there is a larger issue, which allows our dentists to rule out other problems.
For over 30 years, Lifetime Dental Excellence has worked with patients on TMJ pain and solutions to the problem. If you are concerned about your TMJ contact us. You are in good hands with our office, just make an appointment or call with questions on TMJ pain and worries.
