TMJ awareness
November is National TMJ Awareness Month and we want to make sure you have all the facts about TMJ pain and treatments. As your dentist in Chicago, we are here to help diminish your pain and answer questions about TMJ disorder.
What Is TMJ?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which is located on each side of your head and consists of a ball and socket joint. The joints are connected to a disc that work to support your jaw muscles, allowing you to chew, speak, and swallow properly.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMD is a common group of pain-related conditions that involve your TMJ, jaw muscles, and the associated structures.
The Symptoms
if you are feeling TMJ pain, some symptoms to look out for include:
- Constant Pain: If you have pain in the TMJ area or your jaw muscles, you should contact us today to see if you have TMD. Other pain may be in the form of headaches, especially around your temples.
- Sounds: If your joint is making a clicking or popping sound, it’s normally an indicator of TMD.
- Limitations: Limitations in your jaw movement can be uncomfortable and painful. If you feel pain with chewing, speaking, or swallowing, this could be because of your limited movement.
- Tension: If you have tension in your face or neck, it could be due to TMD.
Treatment
We recommend taking anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants to help take away some pain from your jaw. You should also consider eating softer foods and avoid chewing gum, biting your nails, or eating ice.
Our dentist in Chicago wants to make sure you are never in pain, especially around your jaw. If you think you have TMD, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
