Jaw and head pain can be incredibly debilitating, especially when you are unsure of the cause and if treatment is available. TMJ Disorder often presents itself as soreness, clicking, or discomfort surrounding the major joints that connect your jaw and skull. Without treatment, side effects like tooth damage and severe, chronic headaches are likely to plague you. If you have considered seeking treatment for suspected jaw joint problems, continue reading to find out why sooner might be better than later.
Bruxism
TMJ Disorder has many suspected causes, as well as other conditions with which it may coincide. Bruxism is the common practice of habitually performing repeated, jaw tightening and teeth grinding movements, and is often observed in TMJ patients. The force exerted from unconsciously clenching your jaw is enough to cause major damage to your teeth and oral systems overtime. Tooth cracks and fractures, loose teeth, and periodontal disease are all serious risks of untreated bruxism.
Arthritis
Although arthritis is commonly associated with the aged, you may be surprised to learn that some TMJ sufferers experience early onset arthritis in their overworked temporomandibular joints. Every moveable joint is susceptible to deterioration overtime. Accompanied by being the most frequently used and most flexible joints in your body, your painful jaw symptoms could spell disaster and advanced arthritic joints if complications are disregarded for too long.
Treatment is Available
Many people are unaware when they have an underlying dental disorder, even if it has been plaguing them for some time. In some cases, treatment for TMJ disorder is incredibly simple and requires a custom mouth guard to be worn at certain times during the day or night. With successful treatment, you could benefit from having a better resting position of your jaw, improved joint function, and decreased or eliminated pain. More in-depth cases may improve through restorative treatments like orthodontics, crowns, or veneers to correct anatomical abnormalities.
ABOUT YOUR CONROE DENTIST:
The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.
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