You might not give a lot of thought to your jaw. After all, it’s always there for you when you speak or eat, and you never have to give it special attention — until it starts hurting. Jaw pain is a common symptom of TMJ disorder, a condition that affects countless people across the United States and across the world. Let’s talk more about this painful affliction and how you can tell if you need professional TMJ treatment in Summerlin.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the joint that joins your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. When this area is placed under excessive stress, you may experience any or all of the following symptoms:
- Popping or clicking noises when you move your jaw
- Stiffness or pain in your jaw
- The feeling of having an earache, but there is no infection
- Headaches and migraines
- Swelling in your face
- Tooth sensitivity that is unrelated to decay or other dental problems
- Difficulty speaking or chewing
- Locking of the joint that makes it difficult to open or close your mouth
- Sensitivity to light
- Forward head posture
The above are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to potential TMJ disorder symptoms. It can present itself in so many ways that it is often confused for other conditions, which is why it is best to visit a true TMJ specialist if you believe you might have this disorder.
Who Is Most at Risk for TMJ Disorder?
Anyone can suffer from TMJ disorder, but it is more common in folks who live a high-stress life. That’s because the stress can cause muscular tension and bruxism (habitual teeth grinding), both of which are can lead to problems with the TMJ. Other risk factors for this condition include poor posture, jaw trauma, connective tissue disorders, arthritis, facial deformities, and dentures that do not fit well.
Even some individuals who have none of the above risk factors come down with TMJ disorder. In quite a few cases, the exact cause of the problem remains a mystery.
When to Seek Help for TMJ Disorder
If you have symptoms of TMJ disorder, you might be able to relieve some of your discomfort through facial massage and various relaxation techniques. It may also help if you stop chewing gum, make a conscious effort to improve your posture, and take smaller bites of food. However, these steps might not be enough to get you back to 100 percent. It may be wise for you to visit a dentist who has special expertise in how the facial muscles and the surrounding joints work. They can provide you with a custom-made oral appliance that gently repositions the jaw and prevents nighttime bruxism.
TMJ disorder is a frustrating condition that can quickly grow worse if it isn’t addressed. If you suspect you have this problem, please don’t hesitate to seek treatment.
About the Dentist
Dr. Pamela West is one of the top dentists in the greater Las Vegas area. In addition to being an expert on teeth and gums, she is also well-qualified to provide TMJ therapy in Summerlin. If your jaw has been feeling less than spectacular lately, please contact our office at 702-602-2000.