Any problems that prohibit the jaw moving the muscle can cause pain that is experienced in a number of places about the head. Pain associated with TMJ Syndrome may involve the face, ears, forehead, neck or eyes. Some signs to look for include:
►Popping/clicking of the jaw
►Locking or dislocation of the jaw (usually after widely yawning), referred to as lockjaw
►Tightness, stiffness, or soreness in the jaw or neck muscles
►Pain in the jaw, particularly around of the joint area
►Pain in or around the ears or sounds of cracking in the ears
►Ringing or popping sounds (tinnitus) or a sense of fullness in the ears
►Headaches
►Blurred vision
►Facial pain, cheek pain, or chin tingling or numbness
►Pain in the shoulders
There are
several things that are believed to contribute to TMJ Syndrome. Some of the
most common causes are:
►Dislocation
of the joint
►Stress
►Grinding
teeth while sleeping
►Arthritis
►Injuring
the jaw or jaw joint
►Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
What should
you do if you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms? In addition to a conversation
with your dental professional about the symptoms you are experiencing, there
are several home remedies that may provide some relief. Some home remedies to
try include:
►Stress
Reduction
►Avoid
chewing gum
►Avoid
biting one’s nails
►Over the
counter anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
►Ice packs
to the affected area
►Gentle
stretching of the neck and jaw muscles
►Relaxation
techniques
What can be done when home remedies fail to stop
your pain? If you have tried home remedies and are still experiencing pain,
your dentist can suggest several options that can help. Your dentist will diagnose
TMJ Syndrome by taking a medical history and doing a physical exam. The dentist
will examine the joints and muscles for tenderness, difficulty in moving, range
of motion and popping or clicking. Sometimes an MRI of the temporomandibular
joint is ordered to determine damage to the joint, as well as to rule out other
medical problems in the area.
Following a diagnosis of TMJ Syndrome, your dentist may recommend a dental splint, which is a dental
appliance placed in the mouth. The splint keeps teeth aligned and prevents
tooth grinding. Relief using this method is often swift as no further damage
can take place while you are asleep.
Your
dentist may also recommend physical therapy to strengthen muscles, increase
range of motion and improve flexibility. Physical therapy involves an array of
exercises for the jaw. Where necessary, your dentist may recommend fixing an
uneven bite by adjusting or reshaping a number of the teeth. Orthodontic
treatment may also be recommended. Some
dentists prescribe medications to aid in treatment. Muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety
drugs, steroids and anti-inflammatories are among the possible medications that
may be prescribed. Finally, in severe cases of TMJ Syndrome, dental surgery or
surgery on the jaw may be necessary. Your dentist will suggest a course of
treatment based on the severity of your condition and the cause identified.
TMJ
Syndrome causes discomfort and pain, but it is treatable. There is no need to
remain in pain. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and
need help, do not wait. Call your dentist for an appointment. Get answers and
get relief.
Remember to keep checking back for new posts
offering you more information about dental care issues and concerns. Your good
oral health is our concern!
Wishing you bright smiles!
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