Do You Have Jaw Pain? You May Have TMJ

Feb 02, 2023

The Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ

Idaho's ONLY

Boarded dental sleep doctors.
Boarded craniofacial pain doctors.
Accredited dental sleep center.

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A Tin Man who has been completely rusted solid is found by Dorothy and the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. They eventually discover he is asking them to put oil on the hinge that connects his jaw and skull after a few exchanges of squeaking gibberish. He can speak more easily when Dorothy massages the joint with oil.

The temporomandibular joint, often known as the TMJ, is the condition that the Tin Man had, according to clinical standards. That which was rusted shut was his TMJ. Sadly, adding a little oil to a dish won't provide relief for those with TMJ symptoms.

Jaw discomfort may indicate a simple toothache or something more catastrophic like a heart attack or it could be an indicator of a Temporomandibular joint disorder.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is a common condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. The TMJ is located on either side of the head where the lower jaw (mandible) meets the skull. This joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw, including talking, chewing, and yawning. When the joint or muscles around it become damaged or inflamed, it can cause a variety of symptoms known as TMJ disorder or TMD.

Symptoms of TMJ pain can include:

Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or neck
Difficulty or pain when opening or closing the mouth
A popping or clicking sound when moving the jaw
Pain or discomfort when chewing or biting
A locked jaw that won't open or close completely
Headaches or earaches

It is significant to note that treating the root cause is the best course of action for TMJ pain. In order to discover the root of the problem and the best course of action, it's crucial to speak with a dentist or jaw expert.

Diagnosis of TMJ pain is typically done by a dentist or doctor. They may perform a physical examination of the jaw and head, ask about your symptoms, and possibly take x-rays or other imaging tests to get a better look at the joint.

Treatment for TMJ pain will vary depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some common treatments include:

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen

Physical therapy to help strengthen the jaw muscles

TMJ pain can be caused by a variety of factors such as:

Having a jaw injury

some symptoms or diseases, such as arthritis
Clenching or grinding your teeth
Inflammation in the muscles surrounding your jaw, which prevents it from aligning properly
Also, stress might make it worse.

Trauma

You can break or misalign your jaw just like any other bone. An impact to the jaw can lead to:
Bruises
Swelling
Pain
loose or missing teeth

Jaw pain may be caused by a number of dental problems. Among them are

Having a toothache, usually caused by a cavity or an abscess
Broken teeth, crowded teeth, or teeth that are sensitive to pressure or temperature
Gum illness, which could harm your jawbone
Appearing wisdom teeth
Missing teeth
Your jaw is clenched or your teeth grinning

These issues should be addressed by your dentist immediately away. You can use dental floss to get rid of any food particles near the painful tooth in the meantime and rinse your mouth with warm water to ease any discomfort.

Splints or mouthguards to help prevent teeth grinding or jaw clenching

Surgery in severe cases

In addition to these treatments, it's also important to make lifestyle changes to help manage TMJ pain. This can include avoiding habits that can cause jaw strain, such as biting your nails or chewing gum, and managing stress through techniques such as meditation or yoga.

It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene, as a healthy mouth can help prevent TMJ pain. This includes regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups, as well as taking care of your teeth and gums at home.

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ pain, it's important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. While TMJ pain can be a nuisance, it is treatable and with the right care, you can regain your ability to talk, chew and yawn without pain.

In conclusion, TMJ pain is a common condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. It's important to be aware of the symptoms of TMJ pain and seek medical help if you are experiencing any. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause of the pain, but include over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, splints or mouthguards, and surgery. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as avoiding habits that can cause jaw strain, managing stress, maintaining good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits can help manage TMJ pain.