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Temporomandibular disorders, or TMD, involve the temporomandibular joints. Located on each side of the head, these joints serve as hinges connecting the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull. The joints enable you to move your jaw up and down and side to side so you can chew, talk, and yawn. TMD occurs when these joints stop working properly, and TMJ disorders are a type of TMD which can cause pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. 

What Causes TMJ?

It can be difficult for a dentist to pinpoint the exact cause of a person’s TMJ. One or more of several factors, including arthritis, injury, or genetics, can contribute to its development. You may also develop jaw pain or TMJ if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, many people grind their teeth during times of stress or anxiety, or while they’re asleep. This behavior can excessively strain the jaw and surrounding muscles, leading to jaw fatigue, pain, or TMJ.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ? 

There are several symptoms of TMJ, including a popping or clicking sensation in your jaw, or the feeling that your jaw is “stuck.” Other symptoms include headaches, earaches, pain or pressure behind the eyes, jaw tenderness, painful yawning or chewing, or a sudden change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together when bitings. More than 15% of adults in the U.S. suffer from chronic facial pain like earaches, headaches or jaw pain, per the American Dental Association. Often, this pain is caused by TMJ.

What Treatments Are Available for TMJ?

TMJMost cases of TMJ are temporary and can be resolved relatively quickly with help from your dentist. To eliminate muscle spasms and reduce pain, you can try applying moist heat to the area. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a dentist may also prescribe medications like muscle relaxers, over-the-counter pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory drugs.

If you often clench or grind your teeth while asleep, your dentist may suggest using a bite plate or splint. These devices are custom-made to fit over your upper teeth to prevent them from grinding against the lower teeth. If you often grind or clench your teeth while awake, your dentist may recommend therapy to help you reduce stress and eliminate this behavior. Therapy or relaxation techniques may be used in conjunction with a bite plate. If other options have been exhausted, your dentist may recommend jaw joint surgery, but this is generally considered a last resort.

If you live in Hartford County, CT, and are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, visit Dr. Eric Gladstein at Gladstein Dental Center. Having served the Greater New Britain community for over 28 years, Dr. Gladstein and his staff are recognized as the area’s most trusted family dentistry professionals. Call (860) 223-1162 to schedule an appointment. For more information, you can also visit their website or connect with them on Twitter or Facebook.

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