How to Deal with TMJ Disorder and Pain

One of the most challenging things about dealing with TMJ disorder is the fact that it isn’t always the same for everyone. Unlike more common oral health concerns, the dysfunction of your jaw joints, or TMJs, can lead to a wide and varying range of aches, pains, and other discomforts. Because of this, dealing with your TMJ disorder in a way that provides lasting relief will require a professional examination and diagnosis from your dentist. Fortunately, once the condition is diagnosed, you may able to address it and alleviate the pain with comfortable, minimally invasive treatment.

Identifying the nature of your TMJ pain

Because of the variety of conditions that can potentially contribute to TMJ disorder, the first step to effectively treating it is to identify the nature of your condition. This can range from damage to one or both of the joints, inflammation in the tissues, or a misalignment in the joints’ movement. The severity of the condition will also play an important role in devising the right treatment plan to address it.

Dealing with your TMJ disorder

For many people who have TMJ disorder, the most important factor to consider is the cause and how it has affected the integrity of their TMJs. For example, if the joints are damaged because they’re exposed to excessive pressure, then your dentist will have to determine what’s causing the pressure, and how to address it. In many cases, however, the disorder itself may be alleviated with help from a custom-designed oral appliance. The appliance can offer personalized support for your jaw to relieve pressure on your TMJs and help the discomfort subside.

Signs that you might need TMJ treatment

The symptoms associated with TMJ disorder aren’t always obvious, and this can sometimes contribute to the condition getting worse before patients seek treatment. They may experience chronic aches in their jaw or facial muscles, but not realize that their jaw function has been disturbed by a condition with their TMJs. Some of the more common symptoms that can warn you of TMJ disorder may include:

• Popping and clicking in your joints when you bite and chew
• Headaches and migraines that keep getting worse
• Painful muscles in your head, neck, and face regions
• Sore teeth (often due to a teeth-grinding habit)
• And more

Learn how to deal with TMJ disorder

When TMJ disorder develops, the pain and discomfort can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. However, treating it may be simpler than you expect. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.