TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the joint that connects your lower jaw to the bones of your skull.  This joint, when functioning properly, allows you to talk, chew, yawn and other similar activities.  When problems arise surrounding this joint it can cause these activities to become extremely painful.

What Causes TMJ Disorders

It isn’t clear what causes TMJ disorders, but there are several things that can contribute to the decline in the function of your TMJ.  An injury to the area or the muscles surrounding the area, including the neck, can lead to TMJ disorders.  Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw excessively, arthritis, and stress are also factors that can greatly contribute to TMJ disorders.

The symptoms can be temporary and may come and go.  They include pain and tenderness around your jaw, face, and neck area.  You may feel or hear a popping noise when you open your mouth wide or while you chew or yawn.  TMJ disorders can also cause the jaw to get locked in open or closed positions.

Treating TMJ Disorders

Diagnosing TMJ disorders can be tricky because many of those that suffer from a TMJ disorder may have another underlying cause for their discomfort.  If you are noticing the symptoms above, then speak with your dentist and express your concerns.  Your dentist will check your jaw to make sure it functions as it should while listening for pops, clicks and grinding noises.  Your dentist may also take X-rays of the area to determine if there might be another cause for the symptoms.

Treatment will depend greatly on the severity of your specific case.  Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done for TMJ disorders.  The best thing that you can do is avoid activities that aggravate the condition such extreme jaw movements and other activities as chewing gum, taffy or jerky.  Avoid resting your chin on your hand and practice keeping your teeth slightly apart as often as possible to relieve pressure.  If you feel like you clench your jaw while you’re stressed you may check into other stress relief options.  Your dentist may recommend a night guard if you are in the habit of grinding your teeth while you sleep.  If your case is severe then your dentist may refer you out to see an oral surgeon to see if there’s anything they can do to fix the issue.

Preventing TMJ Disorders

Preventing TMJ disorders all together is tricky because any number of things may cause an issue with your TMJ.  It is best to practice precaution if you think you may be more susceptible to TMJ disorders or if you have TMJ disorder and are trying to prevent flare ups.  If you participate in sports it is a good idea to wear a mouth guard.  Mouth guards are also extremely helpful in protecting your jaw if you know that you grind your teeth at night.  This can help prevent any further damage to the joint.  Stay away from chewing on things that are not food, or foods that are extremely hard or chewy to minimize the stress on your jaw.  Practicing good posture can also help prevent the pain associated with TMJ disorders.  Good posture will keep you from resting your chin on your hand or other items and allow your neck, back, and shoulder muscles to remain in proper alignment.  While there is no way to absolutely protect yourself from TMJ, these are things you can do to reduce your risk.

If you have any questions about TMJ disorders  or would like a consultation, please contact Dr. Levy in Hilliard.