How TMJ Affects Your Oral Health
April 10, 2018
Your temporomandibular joint serves as a sliding hinge that connects the skull to your jawbone. Disorders can develop within this joint, often referred to as TMJ, which cause chronic pain. These disorders can be the result of a physical injury or frequently grinding the teeth. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Tilman Richards, can treat this disorder promptly to give you comfort and a higher quality of life.
Symptoms of the Disorder
Pay attention to any changes in how your mouth operates. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Lockjaw
- Constant aching facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Discomfort around the ears
- Tenderness and pain around the jaw
- Grating or clicking sounds when chewing
If you experience pain around the jaw, you may have a TMJ disorder. You should see a professional soon before the problems get any worse.
Problems With Untreated Disorders
Although these disorders are not life-threatening, your quality of life will decrease substantially over time, such as experiencing more intense headaches. This pain can even radiate down into the neck, shoulders, and back. You may also develop tinnitus. Such jaw problems that impact your sleeping patterns have been linked to depression.
Benefits of Treatment
After seeking TMJ treatment, you will have a significantly reduced risk of developing sleeping problems, tinnitus, fatigue, and other health problems. You will also enjoy eating again because your jaw will not click or cause discomfort any time you open your mouth. Your teeth will also be protected. Since jaw problems are often caused by bruxism, your teeth will remain in superb condition for longer.
The Dental Office To Call
Dr. Richards is a dentist who can help treat the disorder by prescribing an occlusal night guard, performing relaxation exercises or recommending jaw joint surgery. Contact the Corpus Christi, TX office as soon as you notice a symptom to schedule a consultation.