Have you been living with pain in your jaw that just doesn’t go away? According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, it’s been estimated that over 10 million Americans suffer from a TMJ disorder; this condition prevents your jaw from working correctly, which could hurt your ability to speak and chew as well as your overall quality of life. This November is TMJ Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to learn the importance of receiving TMJ treatment in Carrollton as soon as possible.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
TMJ is short for “temporomandibular joint”; this is the joint on either side of your head that connects it to the mandible (the lower jaw). When the TMJ is working properly, it acts like a door hinge, letting the mandible move up and down as well as backwards and side to side. If the join is damaged or strained, it results in a TMJ disorder.
How Do You Know You Have a TMJ Disorder?
You’re likely to notice constant discomfort in your jaw; chewing or yawning can be particularly painful. You may also hear a clicking sound when you open or close your mouth. In severe cases, your jaw’s movement could be limited; it might even become locked in place. Other possible symptoms include a radiating pain in your head or neck, ringing in your ears, and inflammation or swelling around your jaw.
You might not experience all of these signs, and some of them are also associated with other conditions. You should make an appointment with your dentist if you want to confirm that a TMJ disorder the real source of your jaw pain in Carrollton.
What Happens if a TMJ Disorder is Ignored?
If you ignore the warning signs of a TMJ disorder, the jaw will suffer more and more damage over time, causing your pain and other symptoms to become worse and worse. In the long run, your ability to chew and speak could become compromised altogether. However, the good news is that with timely treatment, you can avoid the worst-case scenario and start living pain free again!
How are TMJ Disorders Treated?
Since there are multiple possible causes for a TMJ disorder, your dentist might recommend a few different treatments. For example, stretching exercises and pain killers can go a long way towards relieving jaw strain. On the other hand, if you grind and clench your teeth at night, a custom-crafted nightguard will protect your pearly whites and hold your jaw in a more comfortable resting position.
It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to a TMJ disorder; if you’ve noticed any troublesome symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist today. Why live with the pain in your jaw when the right treatment will let you eat and smile comfortably again?
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy has over 12 years of dental experience and is currently a member of the Texas Dental Association. She has undergone extensive training so that she can serve her patients in various areas of dentistry, including treatment for TMJ disorders. If you’ve been suffering from jaw pain and want to schedule an appointment at her practice in Carrollton, Aegis Dental, visit her website or call (972) 492-6700.