TMJ Treatment

There are instances where a night guard might exacerbate TMJ symptoms instead of providing relief. This can happen if the night guard is improperly fitted, leading to changes in bite alignment or increased tension in the jaw muscles.

The TMJ is located near the ear, and because of its proximity to the inner ear structures responsible for balance, any dysfunction or inflammation in the TMJ area might lead to balance issues.

For some people, symptoms may be mild and manageable, while for others, they can be debilitating, affecting their ability to work or perform everyday activities.

TMJ flare-ups, often affecting the temporomandibular joint, are commonly caused by stress, hormonal changes, and posture, leading to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, also known as bruxism.

Dentists can often determine if you have TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). During a dental check-up, a dentist will look for signs such as jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth, and difficulty chewing.

By applying gentle pressure and manipulating the muscles in the jaw, neck, and face, massage therapy can help improve circulation, reduce muscle tightness, and promote relaxation.

Although TMJ itself is not arthritis, it can be influenced by various forms of arthritis such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Each case of TMJ is unique, so its essential to tailor the treatment plan to suit the specific symptoms experienced by the individual. For this reason, the relaxation method will vary by patient.

Treatment for TMJ can vary based on the severity and specific symptoms but often includes non-invasive and more direct approaches. People must explore these various options to find the most suitable treatment path for their situation.

Some of the symptoms of TMJ disorder include jaw pain and discomfort, joint sounds, limited jaw movement, headaches, ear pain, and changes in your bite.

While TMJ disorder can sometimes go away on its own, if the symptoms last for a long period of time, worsen over time, or your symptoms start off severe, you should seek treatment as soon as possible.

To avoid symptoms of TMJ disorder, you may want to avoid certain foods, including hard foods like nuts or raw vegetables, chewy foods like gum, and sticky foods like caramel.

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, meaning it’s the joint that connects your jaw to the skull. TMD, on the other hand, is an umbrella term for the disorders that affect the joint.

Absolutely. Because everything in the body is interconnected, when there is pain in the TMJ, it can extend to the neck, shoulders, and back as well.

When TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can lead to complications and worsening symptoms. It can lead to damage to the jaw joint, chronic pain, limited jaw mobility, excessive wear on the teeth, and increased tooth sensitivity.

TMJ disorder is not directly hereditary, but the factors that can lead to TMJ disorder can be genetic. The structure and alignment of your jaw, teeth, and bite, your susceptibility to arthritis, and your predisposition to muscle or connective tissue conditions can all contribute to your risk for TMJ disorder.

Applying ice and heat packs, practicing jaw exercises, maintaining good posture, and avoiding clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth can all help you address TMJ pain from home.

How long TMJ disorder lasts depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether it’s being treated or not. Mild TMJ disorder can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, while more severe cases can last several months to years.

Absolutely! Stress is a common trigger for a TMJ disorder flare-up. Stress can often lead to jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and increased muscle tension, which can all bring on a TMJ disorder flare-up.

If you experience persistent headaches, jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty moving your jaw, a professional evaluation can help determine if you have TMJ disorder.

In some cases, mild TMJ symptoms may improve with lifestyle changes, but chronic or severe cases typically require treatment.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the cause and severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method.

Surgery is typically not considered these days.

TMJ disorder can contribute to tension headaches and migraines due to jaw muscle strain.

Yes, stress can lead to muscle tension in the jaw or clenching the upper and lower teeth, exacerbating TMJ symptoms.