As we discussed in our last blog, temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the complex joint systems that connect your jawbone to your skull and allow your jaw to move in the way it does. While many people associate “TMJ” with the pain from something going wrong, we refer to temporomandibular disorders as “TMD” in general dentistry.
Causes Of TMD
As of now, research is still being conducted regarding the causes of TMD. While dentists can’t precisely explain why it happens, they are often able to learn how it happens, and discovering the reason for the pain is an essential step in being able to treat TMD at the source. Some common causes of this disorder include:
Natural Jaw Alignment: If your jaw is aligned in a way that places repeated stress on your joints, then they begin to wear down.
Arthritis: Arthritis affects all of your joints, and TMJ are definitely no exception.
Stress: When you are under stress, you tend to clench your jaw more often, and for extended periods of time.
Night Grinding: Grinding your teeth at night not only wears down your teeth, but it also wears down your joints.
Symptoms Of TMD
TMD manifests itself differently in each person, but the most common symptoms of these TMJ disorders include:
- Difficulty opening the mouth.
- Pain targeting your jaw, face, shoulders, etc. whenever you try to chew or talk.
- Noises such as popping when you open your mouth.
- Swelling in the face.
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Difficulty hearing
- And Others
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important for you to schedule an appointment with your Concord general dentist today. We can help to identify what is causing the pain and get you on the right track toward treatment. TMD doesn’t have to change your life. Contact us today.
