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If your jaw clicks when you open and close your mouth or you have chronic pain, it could have something to do with your TMJ or temporomandibular joint. TMJ disorders can cause extreme pain in your jaw joints and in the muscles that are used to control the movement of your jaw.
Although no one is certain why this occurs, WebMd explains that it could be due to a combination of things such as jaw injury or arthritis. People with jaw pain could also be grinding or clenching their teeth. However, some people that clench or grind do not have TMJ problems.
The TMJ combines both sliding motion and hinging action. The small disk that absorbs the shock when you move your mouth usually helps to keep the movement in your jaw smooth, however, you could have TMJ disorders if the disk moves out of alignment or it erodes. You may have a TMJ disorder if the cartilage in the joint has been damaged by arthritis or has been damaged on impact or a direct blow to the head. TMJ disorders are more common in women aged between 20 and 40, but can happen at any age.
Symptoms and Signs
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Pain and aching around or in your ear
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
- Facial pain
- Locking of the TMJ making it hard to close or open your mouth
- Clicking or grating sensation when opening your mouth or chewing
Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you suspect that you may have a problem with your TMJ.
During your appointment, your dentist will feel and listen to your jaw when you close and open your mouth along with observing your range of motion. Your dentist will also press on the areas to identify the sites of your discomfort or your pain. If a problem is suspecting you may need a CT scan, x-rays, or an MRI.
If you are diagnosed with TMJ disorder, your dentist can help with treatments including oral splints or bite guards. This type of treatment involves wearing a firm or soft device over your teeth. Your dentist may also recommend a bite analysis or suggest different relaxation techniques that could help.
Another option that your dentist may suggest is changing the shape of your teeth in order to get rid of the bad bite. Known as realignment, it may involve an adjustment of your natural teeth, or new dental restorations.
If you have TMJ disorder symptoms, call or click and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can help with your TMJ disorder. Call or click now.