The TMJ joint is located at the jaw hinge. This area has an extreme amount of pressure placed on it each day. In the course of a day, you are opening and closing your jaw countless times though eating and speaking. This can begin to cause pain and swelling in the jaw joint and lead to a myriad of symptoms that range from mild to severe. It’s important to fully understand the symptoms of Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) so that you can be treated and prevent further damage and the deterioration of your jaw joint.
Symptoms of TMJ
- Pain that radiates down the jaw
- Pain in the ear
- Popping sounds when the jaw is opened
- Stiffness in the jaw
- Numbness in the jaw area
- Headaches
- Pain in the neck
- Dislocation of the jaw joint
Treatments for TMJ
There are many different treatments for TMJ and your dentist can help you determine which treatment is best for you. Through TMJ treatment, you can find the cause of your TMJ, whether it is a structural problem or is caused by the grinding of your teeth. While there is a surgical method that can help severe forms of TMJ, this should always be considered a last resort after all other forms of treatment have been exhausted.
One of the first forms of treatment your doctor will use is teaching you how to relax your jaw muscles. When someone is having TMJ pain, it’s normally caused by clenching of the jaw muscles. You likely don’t even notice when you’re doing it. Learning to relax these muscles can often lead to relief from your pain.
If your pain is being caused by grinding of the teeth, the TMJ Pain and Sleep Center in Middleton, WI has a night guard you wear when you sleep to prevent your teeth from grinding together and preventing undue pressure on your jaw joints.
With all forms of treatment, your doctor will work with you until a solution can be found. In some cases, surgery is required to repair the joint. It is important to speak with your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of TMJD.
TMJ and Sleep Center can help you with TMJ Joint Treatment and Diagnosis in Middleton WI. Contact them by phone at (608) 833-0865.
