What is TMJ?

TMJ DisorderLearn more about the telltale signs for this common jaw joint and muscle condition.

Did you know that around 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ? TMJ, also known as temporomandibular joint disorder, causes jaw joint and muscle dysfunction that results in pain, jaw stiffness and even limited jaw movement. So what exactly is TMJ and what can be done to treat it? Your Allentown, PA dentist has the answer.

What is to blame for TMJ?

While most experts will state that problems within the muscles of the jaw or the joint itself are the main causes of TMJ, there has been no true cause pinpointed as of yet. However, direct impact or injury to the jaw muscles or joint can cause TMJ. Stress and arthritis may also be culprits of TMJ.

Who is at risk for TMJ?

It’s true that more women than men develop TMJ. Also, this condition most often affects people between the ages of 20 to 40.

What are the most common symptoms of TMJ?

TMJ most often causes intense pain that may be fleeting or may last for years. The pain can be experienced on only one or both sides of the jaw. You may notice pain as you open your mouth to speak or eat. You may find that it’s hard to open your jaw wide or there may be times in which the jaw feels locked. Sometimes you may also hear a popping or clicking sound as your jaw opens and closes.

How does your Allentown, PA dentist treat TMJ?

Many cases of TMJ can be treated with at-home remedies including over-the-counter pain medications to reduce swelling and pain, ice packs to the swollen side of the jaw, incorporating more soft foods into your diet and avoiding any movements in which you have to open your jaw wide (e.g. chewing gum).

However, if left untreated, TMJ can cause grinding and clenching of teeth, which in turn can wear down and damage teeth. To prevent this from happening we may recommend wearing a splint or a night guard.

If you are interested in a night guard to protect your smile from the wear and tear that TMJ can cause, then it’s time to talk to your Allentown, PA dentist, Dr. Robert Sanford, DMD at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry. Let’s protect that beautiful smile from TMJ-related damage!

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