TMJ, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction, is a condition in which the temporomandibular joint, which is a sliding hinge that connects the skull and jawbone, becomes misaligned. The discomfort and agony that result when this junction does not function properly are known as TMD. Chronic jaw or TMJ pain, along with earaches and headaches, are some of the other unpleasant symptoms that can develop as a result of this condition. This is a problem most people are familiar with, but there’s a lot more to it than you might realize.
A Wicker Park Dental will explain the 5 things you may not know about TMJ as follows:
1. It has an impact on individuals of all ages.
Between 15 and 20 percent of the population suffer from sleep apnea. While there is no precise figure for how many people in the United States have this disease, the National Institutes of Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services claims that it affects over 10 million Americans. The condition affects people of all ages, although it is more prevalent in those above the age of 19. Women are also more likely than males to have this disease.
Although children are more likely to face these challenges, they can also do so. Unfortunately, no age group is exempt from the distressing and occasionally disabling consequences of the illness. The illness is often self-diagnosable and may be handled by a skilled practitioner.
2. There are several reasons why this may happen.
Trauma to the temporomandibular joint or jaw may result in a problem. While this is the underlying cause in some situations, others have no known trigger. Due to the fact that females are more prone to TMJ, many specialists are searching for a link between female hormones and TMJ. Many patients are unable to pinpoint when their problem first began, making it difficult to determine the source.
Some people suspect that jaw noises, such as clicking, could contribute to this condition, but there is no direct link. Rather, it is thought that common jaw sounds exist. It’s likely perfectly normal if your jaw makes noises while you don’t have restricted jaw movement or discomfort.
3. It’s simple to keep an eye on for signs and symptoms.
There are a number of symptoms linked to this illness. Some of the indications you should look for include:
- Changes in jaw alignment
- Grating, popping, or throbbing in the mouth when it is opened or shut
- Stiffness in the jaw muscle
- Locking of the jaw or limited movement
- Pain in the chewing muscles
4.There are various types of therapies.
Other individuals may use more conservative treatments such as self-care measures. Applying ice packs, eating soft foods, and learning stress reduction and relaxing techniques are examples of these. Others might utilize medicines to alleviate pain, splints to support the injured limb, or even Botox® injections to address the issue.
5. The most common types of TMJ disorders include the following:
Generally thought to disorders fall into three main categories: (1) arthritic disease affects the joint. (2) A dislocated jaw or displaced disc is caused by internal disorganization, and (3) myofascial pain causes discomfort and suffering in the jaw’s opening muscles.
Conclusion
If you’re suffering from this sickness and have no idea where to turn, don’t worry; assistance is available. Many of your problems may be diagnosed and treated quickly. Today, talk about your situation with Urban Smiles Dental.