TMJ disorder, which is short for temporomandibular joint disorder, is an issue that occurs within your jaw’s joints, causing you to grind your teeth. Typically, this disorder can often go unnoticed because most patients only do it while they sleep. If left untreated, TMJ can lead to damage to your jaw’s joints, as well as wear down and do harm to your teeth. How can you tell if you’re grinding your teeth while you sleep? This TMJ Q&A can help you find out.
Q: What Are Typical Symptoms Of TMJ Disorder?
A: If you notice that your jaw is sore or hard to open most mornings, that’s a big sign that you are suffering from TMJ disorder. The TMJs are located on either side of your head and work together to allow you to chew, swallow, and speak.
Q: Can Arthritis Cause TMJ Disorder?
A: Yes. Your dentist will examine your TMJ for tenderness, popping, clicking, or difficulty moving and provide you with a diagnosis. Your dentist can provide you with several options for treatment depending on your diagnosis.
Q: What Are Typical Treatments For TMJ Disorder?
A: There are different ways to treat your TMJ disorder based on your dentist’s diagnosis. Options to alleviate the pain include using heat packs, practicing relaxation techniques to control jaw tension, or using over-the-counter or prescription medicines to treat the pain. Your dentist can also provide you with a custom made mouth guard to prevent you from clenching your teeth while you sleep.
