Do you often experience a popping or clicking sensation in your jaw? If so, this could the result of a common oral health issue known as TMJ disorder, also referred to as TMD. Fortunately, we can diagnose the issue by examining your smile. We can then recommend comfortably and minimally invasive treatment options!
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder
Question: What causes TMJ disorder?
Answer: TMJ disorder develops when our temporomandibular joints, which connect the jaw and skull, undergo excessive strain. The stress on these joints can lead to discomfort, and eventually, difficulty fully opening and closing your mouth. The strain can be caused by tooth loss, bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching), misalignment, stress, and injury to the jaw or face.
Question: Does a popping sensation in the jaw mean TMD?
Answer: Patients with the disorder often report a popping or crackling sensation in their jaw joints. Other common warning signs include pain in the jaw or face and chronic headaches. If the patient also grinds his/her teeth, then toothaches and tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may be reported as well.
Question: How do you treat the jaw joint disorder?
Answer: We often prescribe an oral appliance, which is custom-made and worn like a nightguard. The device can reposition the jaw to ease strain on the joints. We can also use orthodontics and restorations to ease strain on the jaw joints as well.
Question: Are there changes I should make to my daily routine?
Answer: We may recommend a few simple muscle exercises you can perform daily. A warm compress against the side of the face can ease the muscles, and we may suggest cutting back on caffeine and chewing on hard objects, whether they be candy or a pencil or pen.
Does Your Jaw Pop or Click?
At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we diagnose the cause of your discomfort and recommend the best treatment option to restore the health of your smile. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
