TMJ or Temporomandibular joint is very important for humans to be able to open and close their jaws. The lower jaw to the skull is connected to the temporal bone by a small cartilage disc which is the TMJ. An individual benefits from TMJ disorder treatment for the problems in this area can cause severe discomfort to the patient.
It will be advantageous for you to know about the varieties of symptoms of TMJ. You may have a hard time swallowing if you feel some kind of facial pain and muscle spasms in the jaw and neck area. Actions such as chewing, yawning or even talking may be very difficult for you to do.
Pains and ringing in the ears or tinnitus can be caused by TMJ disorder as well as hearing loss. Some patients mistakenly think that the problem is with their ears. A patient may also suffer from migraines or severe headaches in some instances.
In a TMJ disorder, if your disc jaw is not in a normal position, you may produce popping and clicking sounds which can also be heard by others. Jaw may either be locked open or may not open at all in this case. In addition, TMJ makes the affected side swollen.
There are several factors that could probably the cause of TMJ pain. A TMJ disorder can be the result of teeth grinding and excessive gum chewing. Another possible reason could be the jaw is already in an abnormal position since birth.
It is beneficiary that TMJ treatment is now convenient to access. Diagnosis of problems in the TMJ area is done by specific specialists called otolaryngologists. Eating soft foods and avoiding gum chewing can prevent this problem (if in an early stage) from worsening.
Applying ice packs over the jaw area would ease the pain and would minimize the swelling. You may also pop in overthecounter nonprescription drugs specific for pain mitigation. Operation on oral surgeon may be pursued if the TMJ problem is already in its advanced state.
If some kind of TMJ problem is experienced, then you should have regular checkups to the dentist. However, your dentist should know a lot about jawbite relationships to fully understand and be able to refer you to a specialist. TMJ problems and a lot of pain can be prevented if TMJ is detected at an early time.
It was found at around 10 million Americans are suffering from TMJ and yet it is one of the most misunderstood and mistaken with another type of pain brought by its symptoms. It is by no means a small number and it can be safely assumed that even more people across the globe are maybe experiencing a TMJ syndrome. The symptoms are classic and the treatment options are available so there is no need for an individual to go through these painful events.
An individual is able to have an advantage if adequate knowledge is present. Awareness of the underlying indications and warning signs may halt the progress of a TMJ disorder. As such, be mindful of your habits such as gum chewing as this simple act can make your jaw lock.
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