Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) affects around 10 million Americans. The symptoms of this disorder can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult to go about your daily life. That being said, if you can recognize the symptoms early on, there are plenty of at-home treatments to assist you. And if you get to your dentist sooner rather than later, it might be the difference between a minor and more severe case of TMJ.
Cyprus Family Dental is proud to provide a variety of dental services, including TMJ treatment, to those around Magna, UT. Our highly experienced team offers both professional treatment options, as well as a wealth of knowledge as to how you can alleviate symptoms at home. Contact us today for our TMJ treatment! Otherwise, keep reading to learn more about the symptoms and treatments of this disorder.
Symptoms of TMJ
The symptoms of TMJ vary widely depending on the severity and cause of the disorder. The most common and universal TMD symptom is pain and tenderness in the jaw, sometimes radiating out to the neck and ears. Here are some other common TMJ symptoms:
- Muscle tissue fatigue
- Inhibited range of motion in the jaw
- Locking of the jaw in one position
- Clicking noises as you open or close your mouth
- Misalignment between your upper and lower jaw
When you begin to experience the symptoms of TMD, it’s important to take preventative treatment measures right away. Mild symptoms can quickly evolve to become severe if you’re putting a lot of pressure on the joint. If your symptoms don’t go away within a week or two, it’s important to visit your dentist for a consultation so they can give you guidance as to whether or not you need professional treatment.
TMJ Treatment Options
For those experiencing TMJ, the most important thing is to avoid jaw stressors, like eating hard candies, excessive jaw movement and teeth grinding. If your symptoms are mild, you should try some at-home treatments. Gentle jaw stretches are beneficial several times per day. You can also massage the muscles around the jaw, or use cold and hot pads in the affected area to promote muscle relaxation. In general, try to promote a relaxed jaw posture whenever possible.
If your symptoms don’t go away, it’s time to seek professional treatment options. There are prescribable medications that can help to relax your jaw. Or if your TMJ is aggravated by teeth grinding, there are mouthguards available to help. If all else fails, there are even some surgical treatments available to manage the symptoms of TMJ, but those are typically utilized for more severe cases.
TMJ Treatment With Cyprus Family Dental
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, don’t hesitate to contact us for our professional treatment services. You can call us at 801.250.0203 to schedule a consultation. You can also contact us here!