What is TMJ Disorder?.
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. It can cause pain, discomfort, and limited jaw movement.
Symptoms of TMJ can include:
– jaw pain,
– stiffness,
– clicking and popping sounds when opening and closing the mouth,
– difficulty chewing,
– headaches,
– earaches, and
– neck pain.
Teeth grinding or clenching, arthritis, jaw injury, misaligned bite, stress, and certain connective tissue disorders may contribute to its development.
These can lead to inflammation and damage in the temporomandibular joint.
Warm compresses, gentle jaw stretching, and relaxation techniques can help treat TMJ Disorder.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications alleviate pain and inflammation.
In severe cases, a dentist or doctor may recommend a mouth guard or splint to help realign the jaw and reduce teeth grinding or clenching.
Physiotherapy can help improve jaw movement and reduce pain.
If a misaligned bite causes TMJ Disorder, orthodontic treatment can correct the issue.
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the joint. It is important to seek medical advice if TMJ symptoms persist or worsen over time.