TMJ pain is usually a result of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The basic functions of eating, yawning, and talking in a comfortable and pain free manner are at risk when your TMJs are inflamed and unhealthy. TMD is often described as extremely uncomfortable. Inflammation and irritation of the joints and muscles in your jaw often come along with uncomfortable teeth grinding, jaw stress, and tooth damage. Aches, pains, clicking, and popping of the jaw are common complaints seen by Sheridan dentists, Dr. Cody Coon, Dr. Justin Coon, and Dr. Donald Coon. Occasionally, ear pain is even related to TMD.
Dealing with TMJ Pain
TMD usually begins with classic symptoms such as orofacial, jaw, neck, mouth, and/or shoulder pain. Some patients describe the sensations they experience as more of a dull ache as opposed to full blown pain. A feeling that your bite is misaligned, dizzy spells, and jaw tension are also common reported signs of TMJ problems. Once an official diagnosis of TMD has been made, a variety of potential remedies include physical therapy, strengthening exercises, stress reduction, anti-inflammatory medications, and customized mouthguards or nightguards. As with any serious health condition, you shouldn’t diagnose yourself or prescribe your own treatment plan based on internet research or the advice of well-meaning friends and family. Seek treatment from your general practitioner and/or a qualified TMJ dentist.
Ear Infection or TMD?
About half of the patients who complain of ear pain which is not directly related to an infection end up having TMD. The location of this type of discomfort is usually localized below/in front of your ears. Either chronic or intermittent ear pain can perplex patients and general physicians for years before a true cause is discovered to be related to TMD. Since ear infections and TMD are sometimes so similar in symptoms, ear specialists have been known to diagnose cases of TMJ disorder now and again. If you have ear pain and an infection is ruled out, bear this in mind.
Visit your Sheridan Dentist
For more information about bruxism and treatment, contact Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, Wyoming at (307) 672-7567.
