You still enjoy biting into bubble gum just like you did when you were a child, but recently, you’ve noticed some discomfort on one side of your jaw while chewing. The pain seems to radiate around the area just in front of your ear lobe. Your dentist in Lawrenceville says you could be suffering from the early stages of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, which is also called TMD. Read on to learn more about this disorder and what can be done to treat it.
What is the TMJ?
One of the most dynamic joint complexes in the human body is the TMJ. Located at the base of the skull and in front of your ear on each side of your face, it has two main functions:
- To open and close the mouth like a hinge
- A sliding motion called translation, which allows the jaw to move down and forward, and side-to-side
The TMJ plays an integral role in allowing you to carry-out many of your normal daily activities like eating, speaking and yawning. However, because it is so frequently used, the joint can become worn.
Problems with the TMJ
Over time, the TMJ can become fractured, inflamed and sore. Here are some of the symptoms of dysfunction that patients may notice:
- Pain in the face, jaw or ear
- Headaches and earaches
- Pain and pressure behind the eyes
- Clicking or popping when the jaw opens
- Jaw that gets stuck or moves out of place
- Swelling in the face
The premature wear of the TMJ can also be caused by clenching your teeth and a condition called bruxism (teeth grinding). One of the problems posed is that the added pressure transfers stress to the joint, which can cause aggravation.
How to Treat TMD
There are several ways to treat TMD. For patients who have issues with bruxism, one remedy is to receive a custom nightguard that protects the teeth from any further damage.
Here are some other techniques that can be incorporated into your healing plan:
- Facial relaxation
- Massages
- Alternating between ice and wet heat treatments
- Getting adequate sleep
- Eating softer foods
- Staying hydrated
The process of overcoming TMD starts by reaching out to your dentist in Lawrenceville to schedule an initial visit. Then, once you’ve been diagnosed, the professional will develop a customized plan of action to help to restore your jaw health to normal.
About the Author
For over 30 years, Dr. Bruce E. Carter has been providing the best in dental care to the Lawrenceville area. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, he is a life-long learner. Thus, Dr. Carter has completed over 1,600 hours of advanced education throughout his career. He uses his vast knowledge and years of experience to help patients recover from TMD at Transforming Smiles, and he can be reached for more information through his website.