When you have facial or jaw pain it can be unbearable, plus it is even more excruciating when you do not know the cause of it. For many patients, their facial pain is associated with TMJ in South Tampa. The temporomandibular joint is the hinge-like joint that connects your upper jaw and lower jawbones. When it is not working properly, it could cause you to have symptoms associated with the temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ. Most often, patients experience pain and difficulty moving their jaw. You will need to learn what symptoms to look out for to understand TMJ and its treatment options.
TMJ Symptoms
You may be struggling with TMJ if you have experienced any of the following:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Facial pain or a tired feeling
- Facial swelling (on the side of your face)
- Ear pain or pain around your ear
- Pain while chewing
- Uncomfortable bite
- Toothache
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hearing issue or ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Locked jaw (this makes it difficult to open or close your mouth)
- Clicking or grating sensation when you open or close your mouth
Risk Factors and Causes
Typically, it is easy to recognize the symptoms of temporomandibular joint and nerve pain, however, determining the cause of your pain is difficult. When you visit your dentist in South Tampa, they will perform an examination to uncover what the cause of TMJ pain is.
TMJ causes include:
- Damage in joint cartilage caused by arthritis
- Disc erosion in your jaw
- Jaw injuries like whiplash or a heavy blow to the face
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
- Stress and anxiety make you tighten your facial and jaw muscles
- Poor posture
- Traditional metal braces
- Excessive use of chewing gum
- Connective tissue diseases which affect your temporomandibular joint
TMJ Diagnosis
Your dentist in South Tampa is one of the first people to notice or diagnose a TMJ disorder. Your dentist will assess your jaw joints for pain and tenderness. They will also listen carefully for any clicking or grating sounds caused by the movement of the jaw and facial muscles. X-rays will also be conducted which provide your dentist with a complete image of what is happening and help rule out other issues.
TMJ Treatment Options
There are many treatment choices for TMJ near you. Your first line of care can actually start at home. However, once you have exhausted all your at-home treatment options, it is crucial to seek the care and guidance of your dentist.
At-Home Treatment Options
You will want to practice self-care for your TMJ disorders. You can do the following in the comfort of your own home:
- Eat soft food
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication
- Practice proper posture
- Avoid intense or unnecessary jaw movements
- Position your jaw with your teeth slightly apart as much as possible
- Place a heat pack or cold compress on your jaw
- Learn to relax
- Give your jaw and neck muscles a nice massage
Medical Treatment
You will want to visit your dentist in South Tampa if the pain and tenderness in your jaw are persistent, or if you are unable to open and close your mouth. Your dentist may recommend the following treatment types:
- Pain relievers- Muscle relaxers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Oral splints or mouth guards- These are oral devices that can be soft or hard. They slip over your teeth to keep your jaw in position.
- Physical therapy- Physical therapists can provide you with stretches and massage techniques to strengthen and stretch your jaw.
- Surgical options- Your dentist may suggest non-invasive or traditional surgery.
TMJ hurts, but it does not have to. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to learn more about TMJ near you and the treatment options available to relieve your symptoms.