The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the ball-and-socket joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. This TMJ allows us to do all the routine things such as chewing, talking and swallowing. Since we exercise this joint so frequently, it is not surprising and even common that people suffer from TMJ disorders.
Symptoms for TMJ disorder can be the jaw locking when open or closed, popping or clicking noises from the jaw, pain in either or both joints, headache / backache/ neckache, facial pain, or an inability to open the mouth without pain.
If you suffer from any of these symptoms and think you may have TMJ disorder, it is important to consult your dentist for a consultation. If diagnosed with a disorder, your dentist will construct a personalized treatment plan with you.
When beginning treatment, it is important to consider the factors that could be causing or mimicking temporomandibular joint disorder. Arthritis, stress, gum disease, tooth decay and even grinding your teeth in your sleep are all possible causes. For all causes, there is a path of treatment for the disorder. You and your dentist can identify the problem and get you on track to getting rid of the pain and annoyance of TMJ disorder.