NOVEMBER IS HERE, and with it comes TMJ Awareness Month — a time dedicated to educating patients about temporomandibular joint disorders and the important role oral health professionals play in diagnosis and treatment. Whether you’re experiencing jaw pain yourself or simply want to learn more about this common condition, now is the perfect time to understand TMJ and how we can help.
What Is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull, acting like a sliding hinge on each side of your jaw. TMJ disorders, often referred to as TMD, occur when this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or damaged. These conditions affect millions of Americans, causing symptoms that range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities.
Recognizing the Symptoms
TMJ disorders manifest in various ways, and symptoms can affect more than just your jaw. Common signs include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing, aching facial pain, and a clicking or popping sound when opening or closing your mouth. Many patients also experience headaches, earaches, or neck pain that they don’t immediately associate with their jaw.
Some people notice their jaw gets “stuck” or locked in an open or closed position. Others experience changes in how their upper and lower teeth fit together. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation rather than waiting for the problem to resolve on its own.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
TMJ disorders can develop from several factors. Physical injury to the jaw or head can damage the joint. Arthritis can affect the temporomandibular joint just like other joints in your body. Chronic teeth grinding or clenching, especially during sleep, places enormous stress on the joint. Stress and anxiety often contribute to muscle tension and jaw clenching, exacerbating TMJ problems.
Certain bite issues or misalignments can also place uneven pressure on the joint over time. Even habits like chewing gum excessively or biting your nails can contribute to TMJ strain.
How We Can Help
The good news is that many TMJ disorders respond well to treatment. During your appointment, we’ll conduct a thorough examination of your jaw joint, bite, and surrounding muscles. We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors that might be contributing to your discomfort.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of your condition. Conservative approaches include lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and exercises to strengthen jaw muscles. We might recommend a custom nightguard to prevent teeth grinding or adjust your bite to reduce joint strain.
Don’t Suffer in Silence
This TMJ Awareness Month, we encourage you to speak up about jaw pain or discomfort you’ve been experiencing. Many patients live with TMJ symptoms for months or years before seeking help, assuming nothing can be done. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can prevent the condition from worsening.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of TMJ disorder, contact our office to schedule an evaluation. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that brings you relief and improves your quality of life.
