A Brief Overview of TMJ for Warren Michigan
It has a really long name that is difficult to say. For that reason, it’s called TMJ and it is a fairly well-known condition, Even if your Warren, MI dentist hasn’t diagnosed you with TMJ, you probably have a basic familiarity with it and you may even know someone who suffers from it.
Suffer is the operative word because “Temporomandibular” disorders are uncomfortable and can be very painful in the jaw point, known as the Temporomandibular joint. This jaw joint is the basis for this disease’s formal name and its acronym, TMJ. Also capable of causing pain to the tissues surrounding this area of the jaw, the painful sensations can be anywhere from slightly uncomfortable top excruciatingly painful.
Dentists in Warren, MI and around the nation treat TMJ in a variety of ways. Treatment is relative to its causes and each of the types of treatment is designed to bring Warren patients the greatest benefits and relief.
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint is located where the low part of the skull intersects the lower jaw. This joint allows vertical and horizontal jaw movement. If a person feels pain in the joint as well as the muscles around the joint, this person is considered to have TMJ disorder.
The primary symptom of TMJ disorder is when the jaw clicks. There is a disk inside the joint that shifts, causing the jaw to make a sound like clicking. Sometimes, it’s so loud that others can hear it. As mentioned, this is the primary and most common symptom but seeking treatment isn’t necessary unless there are pain and discomfort associated with the sound. Also, treatment should be pursued when it feels like the jaw is stuck in place when opening or closing the mouth.
Muscle pain is also an associated symptom of TMJ. This pain is in the temple and cheek muscles that is very uncomfortable. When it is especially pronounced in the morning, it is time to reach out to your dentist in Warren. The stiff feeling that shows up most noticeably in the morning is prompted by clenched teeth during the night while asleep.
Those who have this problem are typically recommended by their dentist to have an occlusal night guard. If it is recommended to get an occlusal night guard to help prevent you from clenching your teeth as you sleep, it will be designed exclusively for your teeth.
Sharp pain is another symptom. This severe stabbing pain in the actual joint also becomes classified as arthritis. The disheartening news is that there isn’t a cure for this type of pain; it is controlled or managed by taking pain-relieving medication. But a soft diet and physical therapy can help treat it.
Determining the best treatment in Warren
It is important to keep in mind that even though jaw pain can be an indicator of TMJ, it is possible that this pain is spring from another area of your body. Jaw joints are related to the nerve network with sinuses, teeth, and back and neck muscles. So, this pain and its source do need to be correctly diagnosed before an actual treatment method can be recommended for you.
For more information regarding anything related to your oral health, give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!