Chronic pain can be frustrating, annoying, debilitating, and well, painful. It can be particularly frustrating when the cause of the pain is unknown. If you consistently have pain in your jaw, you could be facing TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. The chronic pain is not limited to your jaw, as TMJ disorder can cause chronic headaches, jaw pain, neck pain, pain in the face down to the shoulders, jaw clicking, jaw popping, and more. If you are feeling these kinds of symptoms, talk to your dentist in Sheridan, WY for possible avenues of relief.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
You have one TMJ on either side of your face, as it is the hinge joint on both sides of your jaw. These joints are responsible for the movement of your mouth. They allow for complicated movements like up and down, back and forth, and side to side. The exact cause or even symptoms of TMJ disorder vary from person to person. In most cases, it is caused by strain and stress on the temporomandibular joints. Consistent pain and tenderness of the jaw or face are common symptoms as are grating, clicking, or popping of the jaw.
Solutions for Treating It
If it is determined that you are facing TMJ disorder, there are multiple paths to gain relief. Some non-surgical paths include wearing an oral appliance to reduce strain on your jaw. If your bite is missing teeth or misaligned, your dentist may recommend addressing those specific issues to help you find relief. If stress and/or constant grinding of your teeth is the likely cause of TMJ disorder for you, your dentist may recommend exercises to help you reduce your stress and its effects on your smile. Sometimes habits like chewing non-food items like pencils or ice can be a contributing factor to the disorder, so quitting these habits may help provide some relief.
Does your jaw hurt often?
TMJ disorder can include headaches, pain in the jaw, neck, shoulders, and more. Schedule a consultation by calling Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY, at (307) 672-7567. We also proudly serve the residents of Gillette, Billings, Miles City, and all surrounding communities.
