A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. You have one TMJ on each side of the jaw. You can feel it by touching in front of your ear. The joint may develop pain, a condition known as TMJ disorder. It can be very severe, eventually spreading the pain to neighboring body parts such as the neck and the head.
A temporomandibular disorder (TMD) involves the joint, jaw muscles, and nerves linked to persistent facial pain. The problems cause pain, thus preventing harmony among the complex system of joints, muscles, and bones.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research classifies TMD into three categories. Interestingly, you can have one or a combination of the different conditions at the same time. They include:
Luckily, you do not have to worry if you experience TMD disorder. Wellesley Dental Arts, is a reputable TMJ dental office that offers TMJ treatment professionally.
As of now, there isn’t any particular cause of TMD. However, there are some habits and conditions closely linked to the disorder, including:
In some cases, a condition such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, or a severe infection, will often combine with TMD and worsen it. Also, nervous system, sensory, psychological, and genetic factors increase your risk of contracting chronic TMD.
It’s advisable to see a dentist if you experience some of these symptoms. Since some of the symptoms resemble symptoms from other diseases, it is imperative you visit a dentist who can properly diagnose your condition by ruling out other possible infections.
When choosing an ideal treatment option for you, the dentist considers several factors. They include your age, the estimated time of your condition, your preference, your medical history, overall health, and your responsiveness to certain medications, therapies, or procedures. Treatment options include:
Typically, TMJ pain goes away naturally within a couple of days. However, if it does not disappear, watch out for any of the mentioned signs and symptoms. If you note several of them, book an appointment immediately with a TMJ dentist in Wellesley, MA.
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