If you have a sore jaw then you may have a serious oral health problem. TMJ disorder, or TMD, affects over ten million people a year. Do you have TMJ disorder? If so, the issue can be treated with a minimally invasive and comfortable treatment option.
Try Our TMJ Disorder Quiz
- True or False: A variety of factors can cause jaw pressure.
- True or False: Popping or clicking in the jaw may be a warning sign.
- True or False: Bruxism may develop as a result of TMD.
- True or False: The doctor can address the problem with an oral appliance.
Answer Key
- True. TMJ problems occur when the jaw joints undergo excessive amounts of strain. Jaw joint stress can happen as a result of injury, tooth loss, misalignment, and teeth grinding (bruxism). Eventually, the patient may have trouble fully opening or closing the mouth due to TMD.
- True. Along with a popping or crackling sensation in the jaw, patients may also experience a sore jaw, headaches, earaches, and pain in the neck or shoulders. If you grind your teeth you may also encounter toothaches or sensitivity in your teeth when you consume hot or cold food/drinks. Remember, any changes or discomfort in your mouth means you should see a dentist for a diagnosis.
- True. Bruxism refers to the chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth. TMJ may cause a patient to grind his/her teeth. Also, if a patient already grinds their teeth due to stress or other factors, he or she may develop TMD. These two distinct dental disorders are often related.
- True. Worn at night, the oral appliance is a custom-fitted device that looks similar to a nightguard. The appliance can reposition the jaw, easing the strain on the jaw joints.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
