If you have uncomfortable popping or locking in your jaw, Sandy Springs Dentistry has TMJ treatments in Atlanta, Georgia, to help you find relief. Our dentist will examine your jaw joint to diagnose problems and suggest treatment. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Maria Benefield, we invite you to contact us today at 404-252-1216.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint or the joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the head. The term “TMJ” is often used to refer to TMJ disorder, also called TMD, which occurs when the jaw joint becomes stressed, injured, or misaligned. TMJ disorder may result from several different factors, such as stress, bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), arthritis in the TMJ, or trauma and injury to the head, neck, or jaw.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
You may suffer from TMD if you experience frequent jaw pain or facial pain. TMJ disorders may also cause:
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sounds in the jaw when you open and close your mouth
- Inability to open your mouth wide to speak, yawn, or chew
- A locked or stuck jaw
- Pain when chewing and biting
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or ears
- Frequent headaches
Consequences of TMJ Disorder
For some patients, TMJ disorder may not bother them greatly on a day-to-day basis. However, TMJ can worsen over time, causing a variety of more significant problems.
Headaches and Migraines: Many people with TMJ disorder experience frequent headaches. They may often resemble tension headaches or migraines. These headaches can be severe and persistent, impacting daily life and productivity.
Ear Pain: TMJ disorder can cause referred pain to the ears, leading to earaches. This may feel like fullness or pressure in the ears and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). These symptoms may worsen without treatment.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Many individuals with TMJ disorder also suffer from bruxism, which is the clenching or grinding of teeth. This can lead to further jaw pain, tooth wear, and even damage to dental restorations.
Sleep Disturbances: Pain and discomfort from TMJ disorder can interfere with sleep. As a result, it can lead to insomnia, disrupted sleep patterns, and daytime fatigue.
Tooth and Gum Problems: Misalignment of the jaw due to TMJ disorder can result in uneven tooth wear, tooth sensitivity, and increased risk of cavities. It may also affect the gum tissues, leading to gum recession and potential gum disease.
Degenerative Joint Disease: In severe cases, prolonged untreated TMJ disorder can lead to degenerative changes in the jaw joint, resulting in osteoarthritis of the TMJ. This can cause further pain, dysfunction, and irreversible damage to the joint.
Emotional and Psychological Impact: Living with chronic pain and the limitations imposed by TMJ disorder can take a toll on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and irritability are common among those suffering from untreated TMJ disorder.
TMJ Treatment in Atlanta, GA
Our dentist can help you determine the cause of your TMJ disorder and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatment for the TMJ will depend on the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder. TMD treatment may include jaw and facial relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes, restorative dental treatments, a mouthguard or night guard, or jaw surgery. To learn more about TMJ treatment and schedule your consultation with our dentist, we encourage you to contact us today.