What is TMJ?

by | Dec 16, 2018 | Uncategorized

The temporomandibular joint is the one that connects the jaw to the joints below the ears. This joint connects the jaw bone to the skull and is the joint that causes TMJ disorder. When this joint becomes irritated and causes someone pain is when people will say that they have TMJ.

What are the signs of TMJ?

TMJ disorder can be caused because of a number of factors. The signs and symptoms may vary, but they typically are:

  • A consistent pain and tenderness on a person’s jaw
  • Pain in one or both of the TMJ joints
  • Pain that radiates in or around a person's ear
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing
  • An aching pain that is on and around the face

Having a TMJ disorder, someone may notice a type of clicking or popping sound when they open and close their mouth. The clicking is typically coming from the inflamed joints on one or both sides of the jaw.

What causes TMJ to happen?

When it comes to TMJ disorder there are different reasons that can cause the TMJ to form in someone and it can depend on the way that they go about finding relief. Reasons of TMJ forming include:

  • Over a course of time, the joint erodes and moves out of the proper alignment causing the pain
  • Because of arthritis, the joint cartilage becomes damaged and causes the pain
  • The joint has become damaged because of a blow or impact to the jaw

These are a few of the reasons that someone can have TMJ joint disorder form and occur. Typically, some home remedies can be helpful in subsiding the pain. However, sometimes it can require a medical professional to help in ending the pain.

What are some home remedies to help with TMJ?

There are a few different home remedies that can help in alleviating the pain caused by TMJ. One of the best home remedies is applying an ice pack to the area. However, it is recommended that you wrap the ice pack in a washcloth and not put it directly on your cheek and joint.

Included in good home remedies is taking over the counter pain medication including Tylenol and ibuprofen. It’s important to also avoid chewing gum and doing some simple stretches and muscle movement to help loosen up the swollen joints.

What if home remedies do not work?

If you have tried different home remedies and they have not given you any relief, it could be time to talk to a professional about possible relief options. These options can include Botox injections, physical therapy and pain medication.

Living with TMJ can be uncomfortable and interrupt your daily life. It is important to talk to your medical professionals and dentist about what you are experiencing.

Contact us today and we can help you in making the best decisions to help alleviate your pain and improve your day to day life. Contact us today!

Request an appointment here: https://www.smtfamilydental.com or call South Mountain Family Dental at (602) 438-9245 for an appointment in our Tempe office.


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