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TMJ: Introduction to Jaw Pain, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Do you suffer from Jaw Pain? You may be struggling with a TMJ disorder, which stands for temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders. TMJ can cause various symptoms, including pain, clicking and limited jaw movement. In this article, we will discuss the potential causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of TMJ disorders.
Causes of TMJ
The causes of TMJ can vary from person to person, but the main causes are generally related to habits and misalignments of the temporomandibular joint. Habits such as tooth grinding and jaw clenching can create tension and microtrauma of the joint and muscles, which can lead to TMJ disorders. Additionally, misalignments such as TMJ syndromes, bite issues and facial asymmetry can also put stress on the joint, leading to TMJ symptoms.
Symptoms of TMJ
Common symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, facial pain, headaches, neck pain, and limited jaw range of motion. Other symptoms can include ear pain, dizziness, and even tinnitus. Depending on the severity of the disorder, some patients may even experience difficulty in speaking or eating.
Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ
Diagnosis of TMJ involves a thorough examination of the jaw and overall oral health. A TMJ specialist or dentist will evaluate the joint directly and may order imaging such as x-rays or MRI of the TMJ for further evaluation of the joint.
Treatment for TMJ disorders typically consists of a combination of approaches. For example, habits such as grinding and clenching may be addressed through dental appliance therapy such as splints and oral guards. Additionally, postural re-education and jaw stretches can be employed to reduce muscle tension and restore jaw range of motion. Additional forms of treatment may also include injections, medications, and even surgery in more severe cases.
TMJ: Summary of Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders and can cause various symptoms ranging from jaw pain, facial pain, and headaches, to neck pain, ear pain, and dizziness. The causes of TMJ are typically related to habits such as tooth grinding and jaw clenching as well as misalignments of the joint such as TMJ syndromes, bite issues and facial asymmetry. Diagnosis of TMJ typically involves a physical examination and imaging. Treatment can involve a combination of approaches such as dental appliance therapy, postural re-education, jaw stretches, injections, medications, and surgery.
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