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What Is TMJ? How Is It Treated? by Cleo Gib
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What Is TMJ? How Is It Treated? |
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Health
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Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is a fairly common condition that can affect Americans of all ages and lifestyles throughout the country. According to the Mayo Clinic, it most commonly affects women between the ages of 20 and 40. TMJ is a problem with the hinges connecting the upper and lower jaws. These hinges, among the strongest in the body, are responsible for shifting the jaw in all directions. They are essential for proper eating, speaking, and functions such as yawning. Any problems with these hinges can complicate all of these important functions. Unfortunately, researchers have not determined the exact cause or causes of TMJ. However, the symptoms are fairly clear. Those who suffer from issues with their jaw should visit one of the Fairbanks dentists in their area to determine if they have TMJ and begin treatment. Symptoms The symptoms of TMJ commonly include: • Clicking or popping jaw • Pain when yawning, chewing, or otherwise engaging your jaw • A jaw that feels stuck or slow to move • Tender or sore jaw muscles • Poor alignment of the upper and lower teeth • Headaches, earaches, and pain • Jaw pressure Diagnosis Diagnosing TMJ can be somewhat complex, especially because all of the common TMJ symptoms are also symptoms of other issues such as nerve disorders or an infected tooth root. However, a dentist can make a proper diagnosis by taking note of your symptoms, medical history, dental history, and the findings of an examination. In addition, they may also take X-rays to get an inside look at the jaw hinges. Treatment Treating and curing TMJ depends on the severity of the symptoms and how you respond to conservative treatment—minor treatment techniques that may be effective. Often, medications such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants can relieve TMJ symptoms. Sometimes, dentists prescribe mouth guards to prevent grinding and jaw shifting if they determine that as the cause of jaw hinge problems. Often, relaxation techniques are sufficient. However, if no conservative treatment options are effective then a dentist may recommend you have jaw joint surgery. Often, this is the only way to provide relief from difficult or severe TMJ symptoms. The best way to begin the treatment process is to schedule an appointment with one of the Fairbanks dentists near you. If you identify with any of the symptoms outlined in this article, you may find relief from TMJ with a dentist's expert treatments.
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