What You Need to Know About TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint. There are many different causes of this disorder. Regardless of the cause of TMJD, orthodontics can treat it. You need to know a few things about TMJ to determine if you have this condition. Here are some things you need to know.

What Causes TMJ?

TMJ disorder is a blanket phrase used to describe any temporomandibular joint disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this disorder is fairly prevalent, with a rate of between 5%-12% of the population suffering to some degree. Some of the causes have been identified as genetic causes, arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, infections, autoimmune diseases, and environmental factors.

Some groups are more prone to TMJ disorders than others. For example, people who play the violin have incidences of TMJD twice as high as those who do not. It is thought that the repetitive movement of holding the violin causes TMJD.

What Are The Symptoms of TMJD?

Some of the symptoms of TMJD largely go unnoticed. For example, many patients report a clicking sound in their jaw. Some patients hear an occasional pop. They do not experience pain but can hear a click or pop every time they move their mouth. Other symptoms are very noticeable, like pain in the jaw every time there is movement in the mouth. The pain can be sharp and sudden.

TMJD is a progressive condition, meaning the symptoms worsen with time. In severe cases, the jaw may lock in place.

What is The Treatment for TMJD?

Several different treatment approaches may help. If it is determined that your TMJD is caused by tooth grinding, one of the orthodontics treatments is to fit you for a mouth guard that you will wear at night. Another one of the orthodontics treatment options is injections if it is determined that the TMJD is caused by arthritis. In some cases, steroid injections are the cure for TMJD.

In severe cases, TMJD surgery may be the best answer. The best way to get the treatment you need if you suspect you have TMJD is to make an appointment with us to evaluate your condition and provide treatment options. Call us today to make an appointment.