If you were to poll TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder) dentists about the frequency of oral health issues with the temporomandibular joint, you might be surprised with the results. Issues with this joint are much more common than most think. This joint serves as the axis between the skull base and the lower jaw.
It is responsible for the opening and closing of the mouth. Those who work in the dental health industry refer to the joint as TMJ. Numerous issues can develop with TMJ that require treatment from an oral health professional. We can treat TMJ problems and help improve a patient's life in multiple ways.
In many cases, the first step in treating TMJ is the use of medication like an anti-inflammatory or muscle relaxant. These medications decrease grinding and clenching habits. Some patients find the use of such medication in combination with a diet consisting of soft foods to alleviate the pain from TMJ. Most TMJ patients receive a device known as an orthotic splint.
An orthotic splint is a custom-tailored oral health device that fits the patient's teeth. Patients wear the device when sleeping to relieve pressure on the joints. This splint also allows the muscles that affect the jaw joints to relax. The end result is a reduction in pain and inflammation. If the orthotic splint proves effective, it will even reduce the progress of the degenerative process.
Patients who give TMJ treatment a chance will find it is easier to maintain a focus at work or school. Life will also be less difficult now that there is no constant pain in the face. Aside from improved mental clarity, this relief will also make it easier to talk, eat and form facial expressions.
Those who struggle with TMJ issues tend to have headaches at a higher frequency than the average person. Ask those who receive TMJ treatment about the impact on headaches and they will overwhelmingly testify TMJ treatment dramatically reduces the frequency of headaches, especially those severe migraines.
TMJ has the potential to cause pain in the entirety of the face. This is especially true for the eyes and ears. Any muscle group in the face or head area can be impacted by TMJ problems. Patients need pain-free eyes and ears to function at work, home, school and elsewhere.
Plenty of those with TMJ issues finds it difficult to sleep. TMJ is often the complete or at least a partial cause of snoring, sleep apnea and additional chronic sleep disorders. As we learn more about the human body and rest, it is becoming increasingly clear that a restful night of sleep is essential to well-being. If a patient finds it difficult to achieve a deep sleep, then we can treat the TMJ for an easier sleep. This treatment will enhance the sleeping experience to the point that the patient feels completely refreshed upon waking.
If your jaw is stiff due to issues with TMJ, you will find it is difficult to consume your favorite foods. Even a simple yawn or opening your mouth to talk can cause pain as a result of TMJ problems. TMJ treatment allows for an expanded range of motion that permits talking, eating, yawning and other movements with the jaw.
For more information call Northside Dental Care, PC at (978) 206-7077.
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