TMJ Treatment In Encino, CA
Your mouth performs many important functions every single day. There are many components in your mouth that enable it to easily perform these functions. One of these components is your temporomandibular joints, commonly called the TMJ. When your TMJ is healthy, they function without issue. You are most likely unaware that they are even working. When the TMJ have become irritated and inflamed, every movement they make can cause excruciating pain. If your TMJ is causing you pain, Encino Cosmetic Dentistry can help.
What are the TMJ?The temporomandibular joints, simply referred to as the TMJ are two joints that play many important roles in your mouth. These ball and socket joints are located on each side of your face, right where your mandible, or lower jaw, connects to your skull. A disc sits in each joint, which absorbs the impact of pressures placed on these joints. Your TMJ enables you to open and close your mouth, as well as move it from side to side. These functions help you to bite, chew, speak, and much more.
What is TMJ Disorder?TMJ disorder is a broad term that refers to any issue that causes pain in your TMJ, and the attached muscles, bones, and ligaments. This pain can significantly interfere with your abilities to do many basic things, including eating and speaking. Even the smallest movements of your mouth can become excruciating.
What Causes Issues with the TMJ?There are many different issues that can cause TMJ disorder. These issues include: | • |
Bruxism. This is a condition in which you clench and grind your teeth. Bruxism puts excessive pressure on your teeth, your jaw, and your TMJ. The condition may be caused by complications such as stress, medications, or poor tooth alignment.
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Facial trauma. A fall, car accident, or sports injury can irritate your TMJ, leading to discomfort.
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Dislocating your jaw. Dislocation or whiplash can cause small tears in the joints, which can then lead to irritation and inflammation. |
Symptoms of TMJ DisorderJaw and TMJ pain are some of the most prevalent symptoms of TMJ disorder. There are other symptoms that may occur as well. These symptoms generally start mild, often barely noticeable. The longer the condition goes untreated, however, the more serious they become. Symptoms include: | • |
Jaw and facial swelling.
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Facial pain.
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Pain and difficulty eating and speaking.
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Temporary lockjaw.
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Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations in your jaw.
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Chronic headaches or earaches, which are caused by radiating pain. These symptoms can often be mistaken for a completely unrelated issue, often leading to misdiagnosis. |
What are My Treatment Options?While TMJ can cause significant pain, it is treatable. There are several treatment options available. Common treatments include: | • |
Home remedies, such as OTC pain relievers or ice packs. You may also benefit from stress relief tactics such as yoga, deep breathing, or meditation.
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A night guard, or an oral appliance that is worn over your teeth while you sleep. This device absorbs the impact your teeth and jaw muscles exert on your jaw and your TMJ.
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Orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment can correct alignment issues, alleviating your TMJ disorder.
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Oral surgery. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to alleviate your pain. |
With the right treatment, we can help to alleviate your TMJ pain and restore your quality of life. Call Encino Cosmetic Dentistry today at (818) 783-0408 to learn more and schedule your consultation. |
