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Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Posted by GuestPoster in Health & Fitness
Temporomandibular joint disorder, simply referred to as TMJ, is a broad term used for acute or chronic swelling of the temporomandibular joint. This joint’s purpose is to connect the jaw to the skull. TMJ can cause severe pain and discomfort and make talking, biting, and chewing quite difficult. TMJ not only falls within dentistry, but neurology as well, and this provides many different treatment methods. There are many factors that can contribute to being diagnosed with TMJ. These include over opening of the jaw and repeated aggressive sliding of the jaw either sideways or forward. Knoxville dentists familiar with cases of TMJ also note trauma, bruxism, and jaw thrusting as possible causes for the disorder. Migraines and headaches are also symptoms of TMJ disorder.
Unfortunately other than avoiding the above mentioned activities there is not a clearly defined way to prevent TMJ. Instead there are many available treatment methods. Knoxville dental experts familiar with TMJ recommend first visiting a dentist to determine the severity of the case. In some cases, particularly the more severe ones, a neurologist will need to be consulted. When the dentist has a clear picture of how severe the case of TMJ is, a treatment plan will be created. Pain management will first be discussed until something more long term is put in place. Pain management for TMJ often consists of analgesic pain killers such as paracetamol.
Long term treatment for TMJ generally consists of either restoration or splints. In some cases improperly installed dental crowns and bridges can cause TMJ. These will be checked, and if in fact are determined to be the cause they can be removed. If trauma is the cause of the TMJ, surgery can be used to repair the trauma. Splints are also a popular option according to Knoxville dentists. These are more commonly referred to as mouth or nights guards, and help prevent nighttime clenching which can agitate the TMJ and cause the pain to become more severe. The treatment method which is right for you will be determined based on your dental exam.
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