Symptoms of TMJ disorder can include clicking, popping, or grating noises in the jaw. You may also experience facial fatigue, limited jaw movement, or earaches. Pain around the ear that extends to the cheeks may also be a sign of TMJ. Other signs of TMJ disorder include changing the shape of your jaw, or the way your upper and lower teeth fit together. If any of these symptoms are present, you should see a dentist.
TMJ disorders are common and can be very difficult to treat. Twelve percent of American adults have TMJ disorder, and more women than men experience pain. Because these disorders can be hard to diagnose and treat, understanding the symptoms is crucial for both patients and doctors. TMJ, or the temporomandibular joint, is located along the base of the skull. It is responsible for chewing and talking, and is prone to injury.
Your child’s dentist will recommend treatment. A biteplate or splint may be recommended, and pain medicines may be prescribed. Some treatments for TMJ include orthodontics and implants. If these treatment methods are ineffective, your dentist may recommend surgery to repair the damaged tissues. In some cases, however, your child may not need to undergo surgery. Ultimately, you should seek medical attention if you suffer from TMJ. There are many treatments available for TMJ.
Temporomandibular disorder may cause pain or restricted jaw movement, as well as clicking, locking, or popping noises. The pain and discomfort often radiate to the front of the ears. Although TMJ is not life-threatening, it can negatively affect your dental health. If left untreated, it may lead to more serious complications. If you want to avoid painful side effects, it is essential to seek treatment for TMJ as soon as possible.
Various conservative methods of treatment for TMJ may be effective. Home remedies, self-care, and dental treatments are often helpful. However, in severe cases, oral surgery may be necessary. There are several reasons to seek medical treatment for TMJ disorder. If conservative measures do not improve your symptoms, you may benefit from long-term treatments. It’s best to try out these options before you go ahead with surgery. It’s important to remember that TMJ is a complex problem that affects more than just your jaw.
Surgery may be necessary for severe TMJ conditions. While it’s not FDA-approved, some doctors may suggest Botox injections to reduce swelling and pain. Acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into the jaw, can help trigger the body’s natural healing process. The use of biofeedback may help you detect areas of tightness or stress. If these remedies don’t work, your doctor may recommend jaw surgery. This minimally invasive surgery is usually performed in an outpatient setting.
If conservative treatment is not enough, patients may need to undergo total joint replacement. Total joint replacement is an expensive procedure that requires a hospital stay and may not be effective for temporomandibular joint pain. However, this treatment is not without its risks. Traditional treatment for TMJ involves surgery, and it’s often not recommended if the symptoms have not gotten worse. It also requires several days in the hospital. You should discuss your options with your medical doctor before deciding to undergo surgery.