TMJ stands for
Temporomandibular Joint. It is a sliding link that connects the jawbone to the
skull. It is located in the front of our ear on each side. It is the TMJ that
allows us to move our jaws from one side to the other and up and down. This
joint also enables us to talk, laugh, chew our food, and yawn.
Any kind of problem with
the jaws or facial muscles such as pain in the joints of your jaw, or problem
controlling jaw movements is known as TMD or Temporomandibular Disorders.
However, often, people confuse TMD with TMJ and refer to the condition as TMJ
only. TMJ is the name of the joint, and TMD is the condition. So, are you
looking for an effective TMJ Treatment, Chino CA? Don't worry, you will find
many reputable dental practitioners in the state. However, for deciding on the
right treatment, you need to understand the condition in the first place. To
learn more about TMD, read on!
TMJ Disorder - Symptoms
TMJ disorder or
dysfunction comprises a wide range of conditions that are more likely to
overlap. Some of the most common symptoms of the same TMD include the following
-
·
Pain in and around one or both of the ears
·
Pain in and around one or both the TM joints
·
Pain in the jaw
·
Tenderness in the jaw
·
Pain while talking, chewing, and even yawning
·
Facial pain
·
Difficulty in opening and closing the mouth
·
Swelling around the jaws
·
Popping, clicking, and other weird sounds in the TMJ
TMJ Dysfunction - Causes
The exact reason behind
issues with the TM joint is not known. According to dental practitioners, the
pain and difficulties associated with the TMJ can be a combination of multiple
factors including - jaw injury, arthritis, genetics, stress, etc. Also, some
people happen to grind their teeth or clench it tight when angry or by habit.
This practice is known as bruxism. It can also be a cause of TMJ disorders.
TMJ Disorder - Treatments
In most of the cases,
the signs and symptoms of TMD are temporary and can be treated using
self-management processes and medical interventions sans any nonsurgical
procedure. Doctors consider surgery as a last resort when it comes to treating
TMJ disorders.
Unfortunately, if you
have been diagnosed with TMD, then your dentist may prescribe the following as
some effective ways of TMJ
Treatment Chino CA is a place where you will find many good dental
practitioners. So, choose wisely and listen to your doctor's advice.
Most dental practitioners will provide you with the following
advice and treatments -
You're dental
practitioners will prescribe anti-inflammatories and pain relievers depending
on the intensity of your pain. Some dentists also prescribe tricyclic
antidepressants for controlling bruxism, insomnia, and pain. Muscle relaxants
are also taken to calm down the pain and discomfort caused as a result of TMJ
disorders due to muscular spasms.
Wearing Oral splints or
occlusal appliances over teeth can also relieve pain and discomfort caused by
TMD.
Your doctor may suggest
you eat soft and liquid food. Eating soft food that you don't have to chew
allows your rest and helps in calming down the pain. On the contrary, eating
hard food can aggravate your symptoms. So, eat soft food like mashed potatoes,
yogurt, soft boiled vegetables, soup, scrambled eggs, fish, etc.
Most dental
practitioners also prescribe jaw exercises followed by the application of moist
heat and ice. The exercises allow your jaw muscles to strengthen and stretch to
provide relief.
Now that you know how to
manage the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder, make sure to use them when going
through pain and discomfort. Also, as no two individuals are the same, the
effectiveness of the treatments might vary from one person to the other. This
is the reason why dentists prefer using the above-mentioned treatments in
combination, instead of following only one.
In a state like Chino,
CA, you will find a number of dental practitioners. Therefore, you might find
it a bit daunting to choose one from multiple options. No issues. Do some
homework, as for word of mouth recommendations, leaf through the websites of
the noted dentists practicing in your state and choose the one who you find the
most suitable option for you.