General dentists are here to answer any questions one might have about temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). These are problems that affect the sliding hinge-like joints that connect the lower jaw and the rest of the skull.
Here are the answers to some of the questions individuals might have about the temporomandibular joints and issues that can affect them:
Temporomandibular joint disorders affect the joints that connect the skull to the lower jaw. Problems that arise there can lead to symptoms like pain and discomfort coming from the jaw and the muscles around them. TMJ problems can also lead to migraines and headaches.
TMJ disorders often come with symptoms like clicking or popping sounds coming from the jaw, pain coming from the temporomandibular joints, jaw pain, a tender jaw, headaches, ear pain, popping sounds in the ear, difficulty chewing, a stiff neck, neck aches, difficulty opening and closing the mouth and a locked jaw.
Yes. These are some of the symptoms associated with the condition. TMJ can also lead to pain coming from the neck, jaw, or ears. The headaches caused by TMJ disorders are often confused with tension headaches due to their similarities.
Yes. TMJ problems often lead to back, neck, or shoulder pain. Anyone who is unsure about why they get reoccurring back pain should get their temporomandibular joints checked out.
TMJ issues can be diagnosed by a doctor, dentist, otolaryngologistor an oral surgeon. There is currently no health field that is dedicated to treating TMJ disorders specifically. There are also no specific tests for diagnosing TMJ problems and that makes it tricky to diagnose.
The causes of TMJ disorders remain unclear. Studies currently show they are multiple factors that can lead to it. For example, an injury to the face or jaw can lead to problems with the temporomandibular joints. Habits like teeth grinding, excessive gum chewing or arthritis can do the same.
Anxiety and stress can lead to physical symptoms and TMJ disorders are one of them. Stress also leads to habits like teeth grinding or obsessively chewing on hard things. Such habits can damage teeth and cause issues with the TMJ over time.
There are various ways to go about treating TMJ issues. Mouth exercises can help with less severe cases, while the worst cases might require a surgical approach. Treatment for TMJ problems typically starts with a less invasive approach, such as muscle relaxers and oral exercises.
Give us a call or visit our Houston clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.texandental.com or call Texan Dental, P.A. at (713) 979-4184 for an appointment in our Houston office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: TMJ Dentist in Houston, TX.
Your TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is responsible for connecting the lower jaw to the upper jaw and the skull. Pain in this area can cause tenderness in your jaw muscles, jaw clicking, earaches, and headaches. This can disrupt your daily activities. If you want to know how your dentist can help with your TMJ pain, here…
You may not think much about TMJ disorder unless a dentist diagnoses you with it. This is a serious condition that can cause much pain and discomfort. Untreated, this disorder can make it difficult to chew and even speak. Instead of suffering and being in agony, you can speak to your dentist. Fortunately, relief is…
TMJ disorder is a common issue that can result from teeth grinding and other dental concerns. Most instances are minor, but TMJ that is left untreated can linger or worsen into a more serious issue. Many instances of jaw pain are caused by TMJ, and it is helpful to understand the symptoms of TMJ and…
Denture repair involves restoring broken dentures to like-new condition. Before the restoration, general dentists examine the dentures to check for various damage. Next, the dentist provides the lab technician with detailed instructions to ensure appropriate repairs occur. Following the exam, a patient's dentures undergo repair at a dental laboratory.Patients should never ignore their dentures if…
Denture repair involves restoring broken dentures to like-new condition. Before the restoration, general dentists examine the dentures to check for various damage. Next, the dentist provides the lab technician with detailed instructions to ensure appropriate repairs occur. Following the exam, a patient's dentures undergo repair at a dental laboratory.Patients should never ignore their dentures if…
If you have some imperfections on your teeth, and you want to improve your smile, dental veneers may be an option. This procedure can help cover up certain dental issues that may reduce your confidence. Although veneers can make aesthetic changes, they are not the right option for everyone. Before considering this as a possibility,…