The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. This essential joint works like a sliding hinge, letting you talk, chew, and yawn. When something goes wrong with this joint or the muscles around it, you may have what doctors call a TMJ disorder.
TMJ disorders can cause pain in your jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. This pain can be temporary or last for years. TMJ affects millions of Americans, and it’s more common in women than men.
Dr. Ren can provide diagnostic care for TMJ disorders and reduce your pain and discomfort. Treating your bite problems will also support a healthier, more comfortable smile for the long run.
What Are Common the Signs of TMJ?
There are several common signs of a TMJ disorder (TMD) or a bite problem. The earlier you seek diagnosis and treatment, the more likely a conservative approach can be successful.
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw, especially when you chew or open your mouth wide
- Aching pain around your ear that can spread to your face
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you open your mouth
- Jaw that gets “stuck” or “locked” in the open or closed position
- Trouble chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite
- Swelling on the side of your face
- Headaches, neck pain, or shoulder pain
- Ringing in your ears or hearing problems
If you have several of these symptoms, especially ongoing jaw pain or trouble opening your mouth, schedule an appointment in our Bethlehem dentist office for an evaluation and treatment recommendations tailored to your needs.
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ disorders develop for several reasons that often work together to create jaw problems. Teeth grinding and clenching, especially during sleep or times of stress, put enormous pressure on the jaw joint and can lead to pain and damage over time.
Problems with your bite, such as malocclusion, where the teeth don’t fit together properly, force jaw muscles to work harder than they should. This can cause muscle strain and discomfort. Injuries to the jaw from accidents or sports can damage the joint directly. Some people develop TMJ because of arthritis affecting the joint, similar to how arthritis affects knees or fingers.
Stress also plays a major role for many TMJ sufferers, as it typically leads to more jaw clenching, muscle tension, and grinding. In some cases, a combination of these factors creates the perfect conditions for TMJ pain to develop and persist without proper treatment.
Common TMJ Treatments
The good news is that many TMJ symptoms can improve with the proper treatment. Dr. Ren will evaluate your symptoms, dental health condition, and concerns before recommending suitable treatment. Your treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms and how severe they are.
Custom Nightguards or Splints: These special mouthguards help prevent teeth grinding and reduce pressure on your jaw joint while you sleep.
Physical Therapy: Special exercises can strengthen jaw muscles and improve range of motion.
Bite Adjustment: If your bite is uneven, we might reshape the biting surfaces of your teeth or recommend orthodontic treatment.
Medications: Dr. Ren might prescribe muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or pain relievers to manage symptoms.
Advanced Treatments: In rare cases where other treatments don’t help, options like corticosteroid injections or surgery might be considered.
TMJ FAQs
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Treatment time varies based on the cause and severity of your condition. Some people feel better in weeks with conservative treatments, while others may need a longer treatment plan.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
Minor TMJ discomfort sometimes improves without treatment. However, if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or interfere with daily activities, it’s important to schedule an appointment with us.
Will I need surgery for my TMJ?
Surgery is rarely needed for TMJ disorders. Most people improve with conservative treatments like nightguards, physical therapy, and medication.
Can children get TMJ?
Yes, children and teenagers can develop TMJ disorders, though it’s more common in adults. Orthodontic issues, injuries, or teeth grinding may contribute to TMJ in younger people.