The full name for TMJ is Temperomandibular Joint Dysfunction. These are a range of conditions which impact the jaw through the small joints that connect the lower jaw to the temporal bone (the bone connecting it to the skull). It is sometimes very painful, but it is also very common. The pain is most often experienced after yawning or eating.

Studies indicate that it could affect as much 30% of people at some point in their lifetimes.

It can be caused by several things. But the most common cause is stress. The tendons and the muscles in the jaw can become stiff and tight. This could cause the jaw to be pulled to one side, thereby displacing it. And this is what causes the pain and discomfort.

It is hard to find a cure for this problem, but there are some treatments that are available.

If no treatment is found other problems could develop. These include the pain moving to other areas of the body, including the neck, face and shoulders. Tooth grinding could also develop.

Symptoms that could indicate that you have TMJ:

– Pain in teeth that are otherwise healthy

– Sinus pain

– Experiencing pressure behind ears

– Ringing in the ears

– Closing and opening the mouth becomes difficult

– Hearing difficulties

– Locked jaw

– Clicking noises when closing and opening the jaw

– Clenching of the teeth

– Headache

If you experience some or all of these symptoms you could be having TMJ.

Treatment options depend on the type of TMJ the patient suffers from.

In some cases treatment may not be required as the condition and its pain could go away without any assistance. However, for people who are not fortunate enough to receive this natural resolution there are some treatment options that are available.

In severe instances (which are few) surgery may be needed in order to replace or fix the joint.

These include specially developed TMJ exercises. These have been developed in order to make the jaw stronger and to stretch certain areas of the jaw. This enables the jaw to relax and move back into the correct position.

The exercises do not work overnight though. You have to do them regularly and consistently. But, they will not take up a lot of your time as they only require about 15 minutes a day. You will probably only be able to see real improvements after doing the exercises for a week.

If you grind your teeth at night you could get a bite guard to stop the grinding. However, people who suffer from sleep apnea should not use bite guards as these can make the symptoms of sleep apnea worse.

If you experience severe pain that is not treatable using over the counter painkillers you can get your dentist or doctor to prescribe you stronger pain medication.

There are Tricyclic antidepressants which can be taken when going to bed so as to treat the pain. Muscle relaxants are also a good medication for the condition. However, it is important to note that these can only treat the symptom that is the pain but they do not treat the condition itself.

If the condition is a result of anxiety or badly managed stress than cognitive behavioural therapy may be required. This treatment is performed by a psychotherapist. The treatment involves interventions in order to assist you become aware of your behaviour and to make the necessary changes. These include learning techniques for relaxation, and methods of managing stress.

Corrective dental treatments:

Here the dentist balances the biting surfaces of the teeth, or places required crowns or fillings. But, this kind of treatment may sometimes make the pain worse.

Arthrocentesis:

Here a needle is inserted into the joint to irrigate fluid in order to remove debris and other products that could be causing inflammation.

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Author Bio: TMJ Treatment Los Angeles Finding the best Dentist to take care of you, especially those near to you is easier online. Click here for TMJ Specialist Los Angeles.

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