TMJ Disorders and Treatment
If you're concerned that you may be having problems with your jaw, it's best to visit your dental or medical professional sooner rather than later. While we recommend seeking timely professional care, there's no need to panic. To experience pain or discomfort in your jaw is quite common, and there are various causes. It can also manifest in several types of symptoms. You may have a TMJ disorder if you experience a clicking or popping sound as you open or close your jaw, tightness in the jaw muscle that results in a limited ability to open your jaw, or any widespread pain or tenderness in the joint. Did you know that the AE's shape and angle can vary among people and make some individuals more likely to experience TMJ problems? Grinding or clenching habits cause strain to the TMJ and can intensify any existing issues, especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep.
TMJ discomfort or pain will sometimes go away on its own, but some individuals experience persistent issues and symptoms that need treatment. Recommended treatments can include over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or even muscle relaxers. Your dental professional might also recommend wearing a mouthguard while you sleep. Ice and heat applied to the area can also be a natural way to relieve pain at the TMJ soreness site. As a last resort, your dental or medical professional may recommend surgery. But there are so many other treatment types to try; we recommend exploring all your other options first!
Ultimately, your dental professional's understanding of your particular jaw anatomy, symptoms, and issues will help them make the most informed and effective treatment recommendations for your TMJ disorder. When considering why you may have pain in your TMJ, your articular eminence is an essential part of your mouth's structure to consider. It plays a critical role in your jaw's function, so it is helpful to understand it better. Hopefully, you're on your way to a deeper understanding of and less pain in your TMJ with this knowledge!