Whether you have heard of TMJ or not, there are a few things that you need to understand about it. It’s not especially common – prevalence is between 5% and 12% – but unlike most chronic disorders, it is most common in younger demographics. Lets dive a little further into this topic and look at the things you should know about TMJ.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is an acronym for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. This disorder affects the jaw joint and its associated muscles, which could lead to a wide range of symptoms. While the condition may be more commonly found among younger populations, it can affect people of all ages. The most common symptoms of TMJ include pain or tenderness in the jaw, neck and shoulders; clicking, popping or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth; headaches; facial pain and earaches. TMJ is caused by a variety of factors such as an uneven bite, arthritis, stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injury or surgery, smoking, and a misalignment of the joint.
What You Can Do About It
The treatment options for TMJ vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. For mild cases, lifestyle changes may help to reduce symptoms such as avoiding activities that require opening the mouth wide (such as yawning), trying relaxation techniques to reduce stress, and using heat or cold therapy on the jaw muscles. Adults may benefit from getting braces to ease their TMJ pain. If these treatments fail, adults can consider more serious treatments such as physical therapy, medications and/or surgery.
The Consequences of Not Seeking Treatment
The consequences of leaving TMJ untreated can be severe. Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen over time, leading to more persistent and intense pain. Untreated TMJ can cause a number of complications such as facial swelling, headaches, limited jaw movement, difficulty chewing and speaking, earaches and hearing problems. Additionally, if TMJ goes untreated, it could lead to temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) which can cause a series of permanent issues and create long-term health problems. If you think you have TMJ, it is vital that you go see a doctor as soon as possible so you can begin treatment and avoid these awful consequences.
TMJ is a serious condition, but if you are diagnosed, don’t panic; there are treatment options to help you get through it! You should see your doctor or dentist right away if you think you might have TMJ. With the right treatment plan, you can get relief from your TMJ symptoms and get back to living your life pain-free.
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