Do you ever notice that your jaw seems to pop or click? This odd and uncomfortable occurrence may actually be the result of a serious jaw joint disorder known as TMJ disorder, or TMD. Over time, the disorder can make opening and closing your mouth difficult. Using a comfortable and minimally invasive treatment option, our office can help ease TMJ-related symptoms.
Quiz: Why Does My Jaw Pop and Click?
- True or False: You may experience a number of uncomfortable symptoms with TMD.
- True or False: The disorder is often linked to bruxism.
- True or False: Changes to your lifestyle can ease symptoms.
- True or False: We can often treat the problem with an oral appliance.
Answer Key
- True. Along with a popping or clicking sensation, you may also experience persistent headaches, earaches, or pain in the neck or jaw. If you often encounter discomfort in and around your face and jaw, then talk to your dentist today. We can diagnose the cause of your discomfort and discuss possible treatment options.
- True. Teeth grinding can strain the jaw joints, causing TMD. In addition, TMD strain can lead to bruxism. Without treatment, chronic teeth grinding can damage teeth, cause jaw pain, and increase the risk of tooth decay and infection.
- True. To ease the disorder, we recommend avoiding caffeine products, lowering daily stress levels, and avoid chewing on hard objects or foods.
- True. An oral appliance is worn at night. The custom-made device looks and feels similar to a nightguard, but the appliance will actually reposition the jaw joints. Doing so eases the strain on the joints. In addition, if you grind your teeth the device can help prevent further damage to your smile. If you have any questions about treating TMJ disorder, or if you would like to schedule a visit, then please contact our office today.
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.
