Recognizing National TMJ Month
Let's talk about TMJ.
Have you ever experienced pain when chewing, or heard a clicking sound when you open your mouth?
If so, you might be dealing with a TMJ issue. Don't worry – at BrightWork Family Dentistry, we're here to help you understand what's happening with your jaw and how to feel better.
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It's a fancy name for a simple thing: the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. Think of it as the hinge for your mouth.
When TMJ Becomes a Problem
Sometimes, this joint can cause issues. When that happens, doctors call it a TMJ disorder. Over 10 million Americans deal with TMJ problems, so if you're one of them, you're not alone.
What does TMJ feel like, though? Here are some common TMJ symptoms to watch for:
Pain in your jaw
Soreness around your ear
Trouble chewing or pain while eating
Your jaw getting "stuck" when you try to open or close your mouth
A clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth or chew
What Causes TMJ?
There's no single cause of TMJ issues. Some common reasons include:
Arthritis in the joint
An injury to the jaw
Grinding or clenching your teeth (often while sleeping)
Stress, which can make you tighten your jaw muscles
Teeth or jaw that aren't lined up correctly
TMJ and Other Health Issues
TMJ problems often don't come alone. They can be linked to:
Other types of body pain, like fibromyalgia
Headaches, including migraines
Sleep problems
Poor posture, especially if you spend a lot of time looking down at your phone or computer
How We Can Help
If you think you have a TMJ problem, don't worry. At BrightWork Family Dentistry, we're here to help. First, we'll examine your jaw carefully and might take X-rays to see what's happening inside.
Your treatment might include:
Learning ways to reduce stress and relax your jaw muscles
Exercises to strengthen your jaw
Medicine to reduce pain and swelling
A special mouthguard to wear at night if you grind your teeth
Fixing any teeth problems that might be causing issues with your bite
In rare cases, we might talk about surgery if these treatments don't help. But that's usually a last resort, thankfully.
Taking Care of Your TMJ at Home
There's a lot you can do at home to help your jaw feel better:
Try to notice when you're clenching your jaw and remind yourself to relax
Avoid chewy foods when your jaw hurts
Pay attention to your posture, especially when using your phone or computer
Use a warm or cold pack on your jaw to help with pain
Research and try out TMJ exercises to alleviate discomfort
Eat softer foods when your jaw is sore
At BrightWork Family Dentistry, we care about your whole mouth—and that includes your jaw! If you're having jaw pain or any of the other symptoms we’ve discussed, please come see us. The sooner we can take a look, the sooner we can help you feel better.
This National TMJ Awareness Month, let's work together to keep your smile pain-free and your jaw moving smoothly. Remember, a comfortable jaw is part of a healthy mouth and a happy you!
Do you have questions about TMJ or any other dental concerns? Don't hesitate to contact us at BrightWork Family Dentistry. We're always here to help you understand your dental health and feel great about your smile!