While many people have heard of TMJ, it isn’t always easy to diagnose. There are no universal tests for this disorder, and symptoms can sometimes be confused with other health issues. Your healthcare provider will most likely ask you about past pain and any cracking or popping noises that you may have heard while opening and closing your mouth. Your dentist may also perform an x-ray of your jaw to determine whether or not you have TMJ.
In some cases, TMJ can lead to severe pain, grinding of the teeth, and difficulty chewing food. Early diagnosis of TMJ can help patients enjoy a pain-free life. Treatments for TMJ are available, including total joint replacement. These treatments can involve a hospital stay and a surgery. The best way to decide whether or not to have surgery depends on your specific situation. The sooner you start treatment, the better.
In most cases, a dentist will prescribe medications and fit your child with a biteplate or splint to reduce clenching and grinding. If your child has severe symptoms, your dentist will likely suggest braces or orthodontic treatment to correct the problem. Your doctor will also likely recommend treatment for other dental issues. In rare cases, a child may require surgical intervention to repair damaged tissue in their jaw. This option, however, is not necessary for most children.
While lifestyle changes and medications are usually enough to treat TMJ disorder, aggressive treatment options may be necessary if the symptoms persist for longer than a few weeks. For people who suffer from chronic TMJ disorder, medication may be necessary to relieve the pain and restore proper function. Even in severe cases, however, the most common TMJ treatment is oral splints. The most effective treatments may be individualized for each patient. For more complicated cases, a doctor may prescribe injections to reduce the pain associated with TMJ disorder.
Bruxism, grinding, or clenching can cause TMJ issues. These behaviors overwork the TMJ joint, causing the disc to wear down and shift out of place. Grinding and clenching can also alter the alignment of the top and bottom teeth. Other causes of TMJ pain include excessive gum chewing, bad posture, and excessive use of chewing gum. And finally, research suggests that stress is the leading cause of TMJ pain.
Temporomandibular joint pain can be a sign of another disease, such as TMJ arthritis. It can affect both the jaw and the temporomandibular joint. While the pain associated with TMJ may be localized, it can affect the whole face and cause headaches. If you are suffering from TMJ, you may want to consult a medical professional or dentist to find a treatment that suits your specific situation.
If you hear clicking or grating noises when you chew, this could be an early sign of TMJ. These sounds can be a symptom of TMD, and you can often hear them when someone else is close by. Pain in the jaw joint, limited jaw movements, or a change in the way your upper and lower teeth fit together are also signs of TMD. However, a dental professional may find additional signs and symptoms before diagnosing TMJ disorder.