TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome

TMJ Dysfunction Syndrom, or Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome, effect many Americans today by causing pain in the jaw. There are many things that could lead to this condition manifesting. This condition can be diagnosed with radiographs and a full dental exam. If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, please give us a call so we can schedule an exam to see how we can assist and relieve your pain.

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What is TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction syndrome is a common problem affecting many Americans today. Many patients experience this pain by sensing facial pain near the ear or jaw region. These problems tend to go untreated for many for long periods of time. TMJ is a joint that is located between where the lower jaw meets the skull. This joint is the barrier between the two bones and allows for a comfortable opening and movement of the lower jaw. It is the injury of this joint, surrounding muscles, or surrounding ligaments, which can lead to discomfort and pain associated with the movement of the jaw. These pains and discomforts can lead to difficulties in; chewing, opening wide, experiencing clicking or popping when you open or a sensation of grinding when opening.

About TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome

TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome is a common condition that affects many people with joint pain where the lower jaw meets the skull. There are many possible causes for this dysfunction, however, we discuss some of the common causes below. If you are experiences issues with your temporamandibular joint, please contact our local dental office as soon as possible to schedule a consultation so we can best assist you.

A young man walking wondering how he got TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome

How did I get TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction can manifest in may ways. Some of the common ways are as follows:

Arthritis
Dislocation of the jaw
Grinding of your teeth
Injuries / trauma
Neck injuries
Occlusion (bite alignment)
Other diseases
Stress

A young man smiling after learning about the symptoms of TMJ Dysfuntion Syndrome

Common Symptoms

While these are some of the common symptoms associated with TMJ, there may be other factors. The following are some of the common symptoms patients can experience:

A tired feeling in your face
Difficulty chewing
Difficulty opening wide
Earaches
Headaches
Jaw pain
Pain in the neck or shoulders
Swelling on the side of the face
Tinnitus (Ringing in your ear)
Tooth Pain

Is Treatment an Option?

There are many options when it comes to the treatment of TMJ. Each form of treatment will vary and will be case dependent of the severity of the dysfunction. One of the most common causes, is occlusion but TMJ dysfunction can also occur with a traumatic blow to the TMJ region causing injury or permanent damage to that region. An exam and consultation is recommended if you are seeking treatment options. With the proper radiographs and review of the your dental and health history we can determine the best treatment options for you and your condition. Here at Modern Smile Dentistry we offer treatment options for other common conditions that could be accompanied with TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome like sleep apnea and grinding and clinching your teeth.