Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are the two small joints located just in front of each ear that connect your lower jaw (mandible) to your temporal bones. They are also the joints upon which your jaw opens, closes, and moves around. Like your teeth and gums, your TMJs can often be subject to excessive wear, damage, and/or misalignment, which can have resounding consequences for your dental health. Today, we explain a few ways you can relieve chronic jaw pain resulting from TMJ disorder.
When Your Jaw Starts to Hurt
Since your jaw is controlled simultaneously on two sides, balance and occlusion (the straightness of your teeth) are vital to its proper function. Crooked teeth, a dental injury, a congenital jaw defect, or any of a number of reasons can cause your TMJs to become damaged, inflamed, and/or imbalanced, placing a strain on your jaw’s components.
In mild cases of TMJ disorder, relief can often be sought by appeasing your overly-stressed jaw and relaxing the muscles. For instance, gently massaging your jaw joints, located directly in front of each ear, can release the tension in your jaw. A cold compress can dull the pain, a heating pad can further relax the muscles, and most over-the-counter pain relievers can help you temporarily relieve discomfort. In severe cases, however, treating TMJ disorder may require direct intervention by your dentist.
Dental Treatment for TMJ Disorder
In many cases, treating TMJ disorder can be as simple as wearing a custom-designed oral appliance designed to help you correct your underlying bite misalignment. Sometimes, however, the source of your TMJ disorder can be more complex than crooked teeth or a damaged jaw. For severe cases of TMJ disorder, physical therapy or surgery is often required to address the underlying problem. For instance, if your jaw is uneven due to a congenital defect, then you may require reconstructive oral surgery to fortify and straighten your jaw. After a thorough examination, your dentist will consult with you to determine the best course of action for restoring your smile’s harmony.
Learn More About Treating TMJ Pain
If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, then TMJ disorder may be the reason why, and appropriate treatment with your dentist could be the only way to find relief. To learn more, schedule an appointment or initial consultation by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
