A lot of people have heard the term “TMJ” in casual conversation, but they might not understand what it means or how it affects their health. November is TMJ Awareness Month, which means it is the perfect time to expand your understanding of what the TMJ is and how it can affect your dental health and overall wellness. Continue reading to discover some timely and relevant information on this important topic.
TMJ: What Does It Mean?
“TMJ” is an acronym for temporomandibular joint. Everyone has two TMJs—one in front of each ear. These jaw joints control the movement of your mandible and play a key role in speaking, eating, chewing, and more.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Sometimes, when people talk about TMJ, they are actually talking about TMJ disorder (TMD). This issue occurs when stress or damage adversely affects the TMJs, which can cause a broad range of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Neckaches
- Ringing in the ears
- Popping and clicking sensations in the jaw
- And more!
The Importance of Treatment
The above-listed symptoms may come and go over time, but they are likely to recur as long as the underlying cause of the disorder is not properly addressed. In fact, TMD can lead to some serious long-term consequences if it is not treated in a timely manner. For example, you might experience:
- Chronic inflammation in the TMJs. This can cause irreversible joint damage.
- Pain that interferes with your daily life. You might not be able to eat your favorite foods, and you may not be able to concentrate on routine tasks due to persistent discomfort.
- Poor sleep. In some cases, TMD is associated with disordered breathing during sleep. This can contribute to chronic exhaustion and a number of health risks, including an increased risk of heart attack.
- Dental damage. TMD is often accompanied by bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). Over the long term, this can cause broken teeth, oral inflammation, and premature wear and tear on the dental enamel.
Are You at Risk?
TMJ disorder can affect anyone, but it is most common among women of childbearing age. People with arthritis, people with misaligned teeth, and those who have experienced past injuries to their jaw are also at risk.
If you are concerned that you may have TMD, consult with your dentist. A combination of home remedies and professional care is often able to address the issue and provide long-term symptom relief!
Meet the Practice
Our Jacksonville, FL, dental practice is home to three talented dentists. They fully understand the pain and other consequences that can result from untreated TMJ disorder. If you have been experiencing jaw pain, we invite you to consult with our team. After a thorough evaluation, we will provide guidance on your next steps. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen at 904-399-3163.