Your dentist does more than just treat teeth; they also help you maintain the health and comfort of your jaw. TMJ is a common jaw issue that may leave you seeking relief with these professionals, so learn more about this condition and how you can treat it below.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ usually refers to temporomandibular joint disorder. The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to your skull, and many different conditions can damage or block this joint. TMJ or TMD is a blanket term for all of them.

How Can You Tell If You Have TMJ?

Since many different conditions are under the umbrella of TMJ, there is a wide range of symptoms. You may have pain in your head, neck, ears, or jaw that could even hinder your ability to open and close your mouth. Additionally, your jaw may close incorrectly, with your teeth not lining up as usual. You may also notice clicking and popping sounds coming from the jawbone or inside your ear. If you experience pain or severe mobility problems, or if mild symptoms last for more than a few days, talk to your dentist about treatment.

What Are the Treatment Options?

First, your dentist will try to diagnose the cause of the issue, which may be a dislocated joint, damage to the pad of tissue that cushions the joint, or injured muscles in the area. They may then offer pain medication and recommend treatments, such as physical therapy or a dental splint. There are also surgical solutions for some causes of severe TMJ.

If you need a dental exam to diagnose your TMJ, contact Anderson Dental Group. Based in Salisbury and Mooresville, NC, they provide a patient-focused approach and a wide range of treatment options for a variety of dental conditions. To schedule an appointment, call their Mooresville location at (704) 663-3300 or their Salisbury location at (704) 636-3611. You can also learn more about their services online.