Basic Information About Tmj Disorders And Their Treatment

Basic Information About Tmj Disorders And Their Treatment

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TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that is effected when one suffers from TMJ disorder. The disorder can manifest with a range of severity. On one end of the spectrum, simple home treatment may be all that is required. In the most severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem.

There are many symptoms that could be an indication that someone is suffering from TMJ disorder:
Pain the jaw
Aching or discomfort in the ear
Pain or discomfort when chewing
Pain in various parts of the face
The joint that allows you to open your mouth locks
A clicking sound when opening your mouth

Many of the above symptoms can also be a sign of a variety of other problems. The presence of one of the above symptoms does not necessarily mean that TMJ disorder is to blame. If other causes have been ruled out, or if you have several of the symptoms, you should consider TMJ disorder to be a possible cause.

To diagnose the disorder, you will need to visit a dentist. He will perform an examination and may call for x-rays or a CT scan. If TMJ disorder is diagnosed, the dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may include home remedies or prescription medications. Only in the worst cases would surgery be required.

Prescription medications could include anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxers or, in severe cases, steroids. The dentist may also recommend a bite guard. This will stop your teeth from grinding. Teeth grinding is one of the possible causes of TMJ disorder and can make the symptoms of the disorder worse.

Home remedies may include the use of hot or cold therapy, massages, stress management, and taking care to use the jaw muscles only when necessary. You can also take over the counter pain medication as needed.

If you suspect TMJ disorder, you should make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. It is better to begin treatment early rather than waiting for the symptoms to become continually worse.


About the Author:
Find a San Francisco cosmetic dentist, tmj, or dental implants professional.



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