The human jaw is a complicated structure that can move up, down, back, forth, and side to side, and this incredible range of motion that allows for proper speech and chewing is all thanks to the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that attach it to the skull. If these joints fall out of alignment due to injury, inflammation, or overwork, they can lead to a host of uncomfortable health problems that can become increasingly painful. Here’s a quick look at the issues untreated TMJ disorder can cause and how your dentist can help you resolve the problem.
What Problems Can Untreated TMJ Cause?
Untreated TMJ disorder can lead to a variety of distressing issues such as:
- Jaw pain: Inflammation or erosion of the tissues comprising the TMJ can make it difficult for the mouth to move comfortably. For example, you may notice pain when you chew.
- Popping or clicking sounds: The TMJ can make unpleasant or distracting sounds when it moves if it is not properly aligned.
- Head, neck, face, or back pain: The muscles that support an unbalanced TMJ can become strained due to overwork, which can lead to many types of body pain.
- Teeth grinding: Also called bruxism, this symptom is commonly associated with TMJ pain, and it can damage teeth and gradually make the TMJ disorder worse.
- Severe dental damage: The pressure of frequent grinding can break enamel and expose the pulp of the tooth to the germs in the oral environment, which can lead to miserable and destructive oral infections as well as tooth loss.
How Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated?
Luckily, your dentist can address TMJ disorder with effective treatments like:
- Occlusal splints: These customized oral appliances are designed to be worn when the patient sleeps. This will allow them to hold the TMJ in a comfortable position, which can help it realign itself and prevent the teeth from grinding.
- BOTOX® treatment: These injections can temporarily immobilize the overworked muscles in the TMJ, which can help prevent teeth grinding as well as the head, face, back, and neck pain caused by constant jaw strain.
Don’t let your TMJ disorder lead to serious oral and overall health problems. Consulting with your dentist can be a great way to help you find the best way to restore comfort to your jaw.
About the Author
Dr. Laura Gramse earned her dental degree at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and is proud to be an active member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Her offices in Springfield and Palmer offer general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as TMJ services. If you are concerned about TMJ pain, contact her office on the web.