Experiencing pain while chewing can greatly disrupt your daily life and may hint at underlying health issues. One common cause behind this discomfort is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, a condition that affects the joints connecting your jawbone to your skull. If this is the case, as you chew and your jaw moves, the hyperactive, damaged, or inflamed joints can become irritated.
TMJ disorder encompasses a range of problems associated with the jaw joints and the muscles controlling jaw movement. The exact cause may include factors such as chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some patients may even be genetically predisposed to developing TMJ disorder.
While jaw pain is a significant indicator, TMJ disorder can also result in:
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
- Locking of the jaw in an open- or closed-mouth position
- Tenderness around the jaw and by the ear
- Frequent headaches or unexplained dizziness
At OC Lifesmiles, cosmetic dentist John Cross, DDS can address TMJ disorder with a variety of treatment options to help make chewing and eating, thus day-to-day lives, more comfortable for his patients. As this condition does not resolve on its own, it is important to seek professional dental help.
Treatment for TMJ disorder typically varies based on the severity and root cause of your symptoms. Some easy, at-home remedies may include eating softer foods and using a heating or cold pack to reduce inflammation. Orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign®, and custom nightguards can also help address bite misalignment. In some more severe cases, restorative dental solutions may be used to alleviate discomfort and improve oral function.
Recognizing TMJ disorder symptoms early and seeking appropriate treatment can make chewing less painful and greatly improve your quality of life. To learn more about TMJ disorder or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cross, please contact our office today.
