TMJ Disorder TreatmentIn Bellevue, WA

Do You Deal With Jaw Pain?

TMJ disorders (TMD), also known as temporomandibular joint disorders, are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Jaw locking is a symptom that may indicate serious issues with the TMJ. These disorders can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, head, and neck. They also limit jaw movement and affect the ability to chew, talk, and swallow.

If you deal with severe jaw pain, you may be suffering from TMD. Contact our Bellevue, WA dentists today to schedule an appointment by calling (425) 646-6409.

What Is the TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The joint connects your jawbone (mandible) to your skull, specifically to the temporal bone in the skull. This joint allows you to open and close your mouth, move your jaw from side to side, and chew food. The TMJ is one of the most frequently used joints in the body.

The TMJ is a complex joint with hinge and sliding motions. It’s surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and tendons that help control its movement. Problems with the TMJ can lead to a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) or temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which can cause chronic pain, discomfort, and difficulty with jaw movement.

Types of TMJ Disorders

There are several types of TMJ disorders, each with its own unique set of symptoms and causes. Some of the most common types of TMD include:

• Myofascial Pain Disorder: The most common type of TMJ disorder. It’s characterized by pain or discomfort in the muscles that control jaw movement. Various factors, including stress, overuse of the jaw muscles, and trauma to the temporomandibular joints, can cause myofascial pain.
• Internal Joint Derangement: A type of disorder that occurs when the disc that cushions the joint becomes displaced or dislocated, causing pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, and limited jaw movement. Trauma to the joint, arthritis, or a misaligned bite can cause internal derangement.
• Degenerative Joint Disease: A disorder that occurs when the cartilage in the jaw joint wears away over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact, pain, and limited jaw movement. Degenerative joint disease can occur from aging, trauma to the joint, or other joint diseases.
• TMJ Ankylosis: A rare but serious TMJ disorder that occurs when the jaw joints become fused, preventing normal jaw movement. Trauma to the joints, infection, or certain medical conditions can cause TMJ ankylosis.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) encompasses various disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and it is important to distinguish between the joint itself and the related dysfunctions.

Causes of TMJ Disorders

The exact cause of temporomandibular disorders isn’t always clear, but the following factors may contribute to the development of the condition:

• Jaw injuries, such as a blow to the jaw or whiplash
• Grinding or clenching of the teeth, putting pressure on the jaw joint
• Arthritis or other joint diseases that affect the TMJ
• Dislocation or displacement of the disc that cushions the joint
• Stress or anxiety, which can cause muscle tension in the face and jaw

TMJ Symptoms

The symptoms of TMJ can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, face, or ear
• Difficulty or pain when opening or closing the mouth
• Jaw clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Aching pain in or around the ear
• Headaches, neck aches, or shoulder pain
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Swelling on one side of the face
• Neck and facial pain

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or ibuprofen, can help relieve muscle pain and swelling associated with TMDs.

If you’re experiencing these signs of TMD, it may be time to schedule an appointment with our Bellevue, WA dentists. They’ll examine your condition, recommend treatment, and help you understand what you shouldn’t do with TMD. Relieve TMJ symptoms today and find pain relief.

Risk Factors of Developing TMD

You may be at a higher risk of developing a temporomandibular joint disorder if you possess any of the following:

• Jaw injuries: Trauma to the jaw, from a car accident or sports injury, can increase the risk of developing TMD.
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): Habitual teeth grinding or clenching, often caused by stress or anxiety, can put excessive pressure on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
• Arthritis or other joint diseases: Conditions that cause inflammation or damage to the joints, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of TMD.
• Dislocation or displacement of the jaw joint disc: The jaw joint has a disc that helps cushion and stabilize it. If this disc becomes displaced or dislocated, it can cause TMJ symptoms.
• Genetics: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing TMD.
• Poor posture: Poor posture, particularly in the neck and shoulders, can contribute to muscle tension and pain in the jaw and surrounding areas.
• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop TMJ disorders.
• Age: TMD is more common in people between the ages of 20 and 40, but it can occur at any age.

Diagnosing TMD

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD or TMJ pain it’s crucial to seek medical attention from a dentist or doctor. They’ll perform a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history and may also perform a physical exam of your joint and surrounding facial muscles. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be used to help diagnose the condition.

Treatment Options for TMD

Treatment for TMD depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In most cases, conservative, nonsurgical TMJ treatment options are effective in relieving symptoms.

These include:

• Resting the jaw by avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups to reduce strain on the jaw
• Applying heat or cold packs to the jaw
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to control pain
• Performing jaw exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension
• Wearing a nightguard or splint to prevent teeth grinding or clenching
• Physical therapy or massage therapy
• Taking muscle relaxants if prescribed by your doctor
• Practicing relaxation techniques to ease stress and control clenching

If conservative temporomandibular disorder treatments aren’t effective, more invasive treatments may be necessary, such as:

• Injection of medication into the TMJ to reduce inflammation and pain
• Dental procedures to correct misaligned teeth or replace missing teeth
• Surgery to repair or replace the TMJ joint

Diagnosing TMD

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD or TMJ pain it’s crucial to seek medical attention from a dentist or doctor. They’ll perform a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history and may also perform a physical exam of your joint and surrounding facial muscles. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be used to help diagnose the condition.

Treatment Options for TMD

Treatment for TMD depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In most cases, conservative, nonsurgical TMJ treatment options are effective in relieving symptoms.

These include:

• Resting the jaw by avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups to reduce strain on the jaw
• Applying heat or cold packs to the jaw
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to control pain
• Performing jaw exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension
• Wearing a nightguard or splint to prevent teeth grinding or clenching
• Physical therapy or massage therapy
• Taking muscle relaxants if prescribed by your doctor
• Practicing relaxation techniques to ease stress and control clenching

If conservative temporomandibular disorder treatments aren’t effective, more invasive treatments may be necessary, such as:

• Injection of medication into the TMJ to reduce inflammation and pain
• Dental procedures to correct misaligned teeth or replace missing teeth
• Surgery to repair or replace the TMJ joint

Prevention of TMD

While some causes of TMD are beyond our control, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Prevention tips include:

• Avoid chewing gum or biting your nails
• Practice good posture and reduce stress to help prevent muscle tension in the face and jaw
• Wear a mouth guard or splint if you grind or clench your teeth
• Seek prompt medical attention if you experience any jaw pain or discomfort

Seek Soothing Relief for Jaw Pain

TMD can cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms that can negatively affect a person’s quality of life. However, with the right treatment plan, most people with TMJ disorders can manage their symptoms and improve their jaw function.

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of TMD, it’s critical to consult your dentist or doctor to determine the best course of action. For those in Bellevue, WA, schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist today by calling (425) 646-6409.