Does your jaw click or pop when you open or close your mouth? You might be experiencing symptoms of a disorder of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is located on either side of your face, connecting your jaw to your skull. Although the symptoms may not seem concerning initially, leaving the disorder untreated can lead to several complications that can impact your quality of life. Don’t worry, your dentist for TMJ in Los Alamitos can stop your pain and improve your jaw’s functions.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is essential for proper jaw functions necessary for everyday tasks, like speaking, biting, chewing, and even yawning. When the joint functions incorrectly, it can lead to a variety of complications, such as:
- Clicking, popping, or grating sensation.
- Jaw locking in an opened or closed position.
- Jaw or facial pain and tenderness.
- Ear pain or ringing in the ears.
- Neck pain.
There are several reasons a TMJ disorder can occur, such as a poorly aligned bite, bruxism, injury, and arthritis. While it can occur in anyone, women are twice as likely as men to have the disorder.
What are the Risks of an Untreated TMJ Disorder?
Although the disorder will cause many uncomfortable symptoms, many people delay getting the treatment they need. While this might seem like a convenient solution, it can lead to irreversible damage to the joint if it’s not treated. Not to mention, it can cause wear on your teeth, increasing your risk of breaks and fractures. In severe cases, patients who don’t get treatment can develop a sleep disorder. This can cause inadequate oxygen levels while you’re sleeping, which increases your risk of potentially deadly complications, like heart disease.
How is a TMJ Disorder Treated?
You can stop your jaw pain and save your joint with the help of your dentist. After an initial consultation, your dentist will create a custom-fit oral appliance to reposition your jaw. The appliance looks like a mouthguard; however, it does more than protect your teeth. It moves your jaw into a more comfortable resting position. This takes the stress off the joint to reduce inflammation to stop your symptoms and improve your jaw function. Over time, your jaw will learn to rest there naturally for long-term relief.
Most patients can effectively treat their disorder using an oral appliance, but if that’s not enough, your dentist may recommend other treatments, like Botox injections, physical therapy, or orthodontics.
Stop Your Jaw Pain
You don’t need to live with chronic jaw pain. You can get the relief you need using a customized treatment plan from your dentist.
About Dr. William C. Poe V.
Dr. William Poe earned his dental degree and has undergone extensive training in several aspects of specialty, including neuromuscular dentistry, orthodontics, and TMJ therapy. Voted as the Best Dentist in Los Alamitos in 2016, you can rest assured you’re in good hands with Dr. Poe. He combines his training with the latest technologies to deliver world-class care. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.