Not practicing good oral hygiene habits can cause a variety of troubles. Built up plaque can get into the bloodstream, teeth can decay, and issues such as temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder, otherwise known as TMJ, can develop. Regularly visiting your dentist, like Legacy Dental Arts in Eagle River, AK, can help stop problems before they occur, or treat them when needed. With an elite staff, this dental office is professionally equipped to handle all of your oral issues, including TMJ.

The first step to overcoming any disorder is to understand it:

• What Is TMJ: TMJ is not just a single disorder, but a group of conditions that creates pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles. The condition is more common in women than men, and it affects approximately 10 million Americans. Some TMJ cases are very minor and require no treatment. The pain is minimal and temporary. However, TMJ does have the potential to become a more serious issue. If the pain in your jaw does not subside over time, be sure to visit your dentist to receive professional help.

• What Causes TMJ: TMJ is difficult to prevent because the cause is often unknown. Some cases of TMJ occur after an injury to the jaw or face, but many cases develop without reasonable cause. Hormones are thought to play a role, considering that women are affected more than men.

• How Can Your Dentist Help: If your TMJ is painful, your dentist will provide relief. Your doctor can recommend daily practices to help ease the pain, such as relaxation techniques and gentle jaw stretches, or they can prescribe pain medication.

Most cases of TMJ are mild and temporary. If the pain in your jaw is intense or does not subside with time, visit your dentist to help ease the issue. Legacy Dental Arts, in Eagle River, AK, has an unbeatable staff with experience in procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, root canals, teeth whitening, and TMJ treatments. For more information, visit their website or call (907) 622-7874.