There are various ways a family dentist can go about addressing issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJs connect a person's skull to their lower jaw. These joints are responsible for any movements made with the mouth, including eating, speaking and smiling.
The symptoms and signs of TMJ problems include:
TMJ disorders typically go away on their own after a few months. More challenging cases might require some lifestyle changes to speed up the recovery process and to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ. These include:
Some cases of TMJ disorders require treatment from a dentist or doctor. Treatments that a family dentist can perform to help cope with a temporomandibular joint disorder include the following:
Most cases of TMJ disorders resolve themselves within a few months. Cases that do not go away can be addressed with the treatments listed above. Most people who develop problems with their temporomandibular joints can undergo treatment and return to life without TMJ pain.
People can reduce their risk of developing issues with their temporomandibular joints in the future by maintaining proper posture, avoiding chewing gum and eating mostly soft foods. Using protective equipment like mouthguards when participating in sports reduces the risk of the temporomandibular joints being damaged by trauma to the face. Additionally, wearing a nightguard when sleeping helps reduce bruxism, which can lead to TMJ disorders.
Anyone who has noticed stiffness in their jaw, pain, or inflammation that has lasted more than a few months should visit a family dentist for a diagnosis. The dentist can evaluate the severity of the patient's condition and determine what treatment options are most appropriate for them.
Visual examinations, touch stimulation, and diagnostic tests like CT scans and x-rays are used to make a diagnosis. Most people who get treatment for TMJ disorders are able to restore their bite and their quality of life. Not treating TMJ issues opens the door for complications like chronic headaches.
Call or visit our Tucson clinic to learn more about how a family dentist can help put TMJ problems behind you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.simplysmilesdentist.com or call Simply Smiles Dentistry at (520) 368-3351 for an appointment in our Tucson office.
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