An estimated 10 million Americans are suffering from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and from its surrounding muscles. This joint attaches the lower jaw to the skull's temporal bone. It works very differently from any other joint in your body, because when you open your mouth wide, it leaves its socket to slide forward.
There are many different causes of dysfunction and disorders, as the TMJ is so complex. Symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, chronic headaches or earaches and other problems with the craniofacial system. Before visiting your TMJ dentist in Gilbert AZ, people suffering from TMJ disorders and individuals who may have TMJ dysfunction should know these five vital details about TMJ.
Around 80 per cent of your brain's sensory feedback comes from your cranial nerves. The trigeminal nerve, which is the motor nerve for the muscles of the jaw movement, is the strongest of the 12 cranial nerves. When these muscles get impaired, the trigeminal nerve can be disturbed to cause TMJ disorder (also known as trigeminal neuralgia).
The habit of grinding teeth – whether when awake or while you sleep – can cause many craniofacial problems, including TMJ disorders, but this is not the only cause. Trauma to the jaw or face (such as dislocation of the jaw) can lead to TMJ dysfunction, and other recognized causes include arthritis and an improper bite. There is no exact single cause of TMJ disorders.
Most people are conscious that tension is highly unhealthy. Stress has been noted as a factor in TMJ disorders, in addition to the problems it causes to your immune system. This can also cause TMJ dysfunction worse when you clench your jaw or grit your teeth. Stress management and relaxation training are ways to fight stress as well as TMJ disorders.
TMJ disorder can always go away on its own, but more intensive care may be required in situations where it doesn't. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) advises preventing surgical treatment or irreversible bite or jaw improvements, unless the doctor has recommended such serious care. Look for more reversible treatments like Occlusal Appliances.
TMJ conditions are often acute, but with little to no care, they can go away. Seek ice, good use of pain relievers, avoiding hard foods, and keep in touch with your dentist.
Do you think you may have TMJ disorder? For more information on TMJ disorder and treatment options, please contact us- your best dentist for TMJ treatment in Gilbert AZ.