Did you know over 10 million people in the United States suffer from some form of TMJ disorder, also known as TMD? Despite the widespread prevalence of this disorder, few people understand it or know when to seek treatment. To help inform our patients about this jaw joint disorder, we’re looking at 5 facts about TMJ disorder.
Facts About TMJ Disorder
- Bruxism can Lead to TMD: On Tuesday, we discussed how bruxism (teeth grinding) can impact your oral health. In addition to wearing down or potentially damaging teeth, bruxism can also strain the jaw joints and lead to the onset of TMD. Other factors behind TMJ disorder may include tooth loss, misalignment, and stress,
- Headaches can Be a Symptom: Often, patients with the disorder encounter persistent headaches, as well as neck pain, shoulder discomfort, jaw pain, and a popping/clicking sensation in the jaw. If one or more of these symptoms sounds familiar, then you may consider seeing your dentist for a through diagnosis to see if you need treatment for TMJ disorder.
- Lifestyle Changes Can Reduce the Severity of Symptoms: First, you should avoid chewing on hard objects or eating chewy foods, as these items can exacerbate symptoms with repetitive chewing action. In addition, you can place a warm compress against the side of your face to ease discomfort and help the muscles relax. Finally, we suggest cutting back on products that contain high amounts of caffeine.
- We can Treat TMD with an Oral Appliance: The appliance will be similar in appearance to a nightguard. The patient will wear the device while sleeping. The appliance then repositions the jaw to ease strain and stop TMJ-related symptoms. If you grind your teeth, placing a barrier between the upper and lower teeth can help stop further damage.
- We may Recommend Other Restorative/Cosmetic Treatments: We may also address TMD with orthodontics or by placing/replacing a restoration.
CALL YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST TODAY:
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.
