Importance of Diagnosing and Treating TMJ Symptoms

If you wake up every morning with a headache, facial pain, or lockjaw, you could be suffering from TMJ, a jaw disorder that causes painful jaw symptoms. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint–the joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. Trouble with the muscles and ligaments that control these joints can result in headaches, jaw pain, and pain when chewing. An evaluation by Dr. Hema Nair from Starcare Dental in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, can determine if you have TMJ so that we can recommend options for treatment.

Causes and Symptoms

Various factors can contribute to TMJ symptoms ranging from an improper bite to traumatic injury, arthritis in your jaw joints, bruxism (teeth grinding), tooth overcrowding, and wear and tear of jaw muscles and ligaments. Genetics can also play a role in developing this condition. TMJ disorder is characterized by:

• Jaw pain and tenderness
• A clicking sound when you open and close your mouth
• Painful chewing
• Headaches
• Facial pain or pain around your ears
• Lockjaw

TMJ symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on your condition. You can find TMJ pain relief by reaching out to your Glen Mills, Pennsylvania dentist for help with resolving TMJ issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

TMJ symptoms can have a negative impact on your life by making it difficult to sleep, eat, or concentrate at work or school. TMJ pain can even affect your mood. That’s why diagnosing and treating your condition sooner rather than later is essential. Dr. Nair will examine your mouth, jaw, teeth, and gums to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend options for treatment. Some possible solutions are:

• Wearing an oral TMJ device while you sleep to keep your jaw in alignment and reduce pressure from your joints
• Using a nightguard to control bruxism
• Undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct problems with your bite or issues with overcrowding which can contribute to your condition
• Treatment of your jaw injury to promote healing and reduce painful symptoms

To schedule an appointment with your Glen Mills, Pennsylvania dentist for TMJ relief, contact Dr. Hema Nair from StarCare Dental at (610) 569-0509.

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