What is a TMJ Disorder and How is it Treated?

If you’ve ever heard about TMJ, you have probably heard someone say “I have TMJ.” The truth is, we all do. TMJ is an abbreviation for your temporomandibular joints which make it possible to open and close your mouth. Your TMJ, located on either side of your skull, work together when you chew, speak or swallow and include muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. They also control the lower jaw- called your mandible- as it moves forward, backward and side to side. Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket of the joint. The disc supports the load while enabling the jaw to open wide and rotate or glide.

What these people probably mean to say is “I have a TMJ disorder.” Any problem that hinders the proper operation of this complicated system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones can be called a TMJ disorder. Dentists like Dr. Alexander of Alexander Dentistry of Jacksonville, FL can diagnose and treat this problem to alleviate the discomfort and stop the progression of dental issues that TMJ disorders can bring on.

What Causes TMJ Disorders (TMD)?

Possible causes of TMJ disorders include:

• Arthritis
• Dislocation
• Injury
• Alignment of jaw and teeth
• Teeth grinding due to stress

How is TMJ Diagnosed?

A dentist must diagnose the issue before treatment can begin. A typical dental examination includes checking the joints and muscles of the jaw for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty of motion. Depending on the severity of the diagnosis, Dr. Alexander may refer you to a physician or a dental specialist for more advanced treatment.

How is TMJ Treated?

For basic cases, there are several methods of treatments for TMJ disorders. The simple remedies below are a “DIY” attempt at treating the discomfort of TMD. These steps include:

• Eating softer foods
• Avoiding chewing gum and biting your nails
• Applying heat packs to the pain
• Practicing relaxation techniques to alleviate tension in the jaw, including meditation or biofeedback.

If your symptoms are more severe, the following treatments may be recommended by Dr. Alexander:

• Exercises to strengthen your jaw muscles
• Medications prescribed by your dentist; such as muscle relaxants, analgesics, anti-anxiety drugs or anti-inflammatory medications
• A mouth guard or bite plate to reduce clenching or grinding of teeth.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend correct an uneven bite by adjusting or reshaping some teeth. Orthodontic treatment may even be recommended if necessary. Dr. Alexander can suggest the most appropriate therapy based on the determined cause.  If you are in the Jacksonville, FL area and think you may be suffering from TMJ disorder, any other dental ailment or just need a cleaning or consultation, please call 904.901.4302 to schedule with Dr. Alexander at Alexander Dentistry or schedule with our office online.