The temporomandibular joint refers to the joint that links the jawbone to the skull. Injury or damage to this joint results in a localized pain disorder referred to as temporomandibular joint syndrome. This article will discuss the main causes and treatment as well various facts about this medical condition. Before that, when in need of the best dentists with specialty in TMJ treatment Atlanta should be a place to give first consideration.
Temporomandibular joint syndrome targets the nerves and muscles contained in the jaws. Since it is the nerves and muscles that are affected, any action involving the jaws may cause tremendous pain. Such actions include crackling, clinking, chewing or popping jaws. Patients common complain of having bruxism, Eustachian tube dysfunction, nerve inflammation, headaches, and painful tempos. The temporomandibular joint may in some instances get discolored. TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder is the other name used to refer to this problem. Cold and application of pressure to the tempos are some of the common trigger of pain.
Symptoms differ in people. Some common symptoms are dislocation of jaws, blurred vision, shoulder pain, muscle spasms, and painful tongue. Pain felt in the tongue usually occurs at the base of the tongue. Symptoms may continue to change as one continues to heal or as the problem gets worse. Symptoms may also come and go without giving any warning.
It is not completely understood what causes TMD. Muscle dysfunction and tightness that this condition is characterized by can be caused by multiple factors. Enough evidence does not exist to prove if some of these factors lead to the condition or if they result from the condition. Some of the common causes include misalignment of the jaws, trauma to the jaws, teeth grinding, poor posture, and stress.
Risk factors associated with this medical problems are also many. For instance, maintain poor head posture for extended period strains the jaws and neck, causing TMD. Excessive stress causes the jaw to clench and the muscle to tense. The risk of developing the problem is also higher is women aged between 18 and 44. Patients with chronic inflammatory arthritis are also predisposed to develop TMD. Finally, TMD is common in people misaligned teeth and jaws.
This condition is treatable through various treatment options. Medications are available for relieving one from the pain caused by the disease. Some of the medication prescribed are pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Usually non-steroidal non-inflammatory medications are prescribed. These include ibuprofen such as Advil and Montrin IB. Pain relief may also be relieved by tricyclic antidepressants. If necessary, muscle relaxants are prescribed too.
In cases where traditional methods do not relieve the pain, surgical methods may be opted for. Open-joint surgery is usually an option in cases where the cause of the problem is structural. The surgery is done to repair or replace the damaged joint to resolve the problem.
Open-joint surgery is not a procedure without risks and complications. It is more risky than traditional treatments. As such, it important to discuss with the doctor about the pros and cons associated with the process before settling on it. Suitability of candidates varies and it is why it is important to consider all factors involved.
Temporomandibular joint syndrome targets the nerves and muscles contained in the jaws. Since it is the nerves and muscles that are affected, any action involving the jaws may cause tremendous pain. Such actions include crackling, clinking, chewing or popping jaws. Patients common complain of having bruxism, Eustachian tube dysfunction, nerve inflammation, headaches, and painful tempos. The temporomandibular joint may in some instances get discolored. TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder is the other name used to refer to this problem. Cold and application of pressure to the tempos are some of the common trigger of pain.
Symptoms differ in people. Some common symptoms are dislocation of jaws, blurred vision, shoulder pain, muscle spasms, and painful tongue. Pain felt in the tongue usually occurs at the base of the tongue. Symptoms may continue to change as one continues to heal or as the problem gets worse. Symptoms may also come and go without giving any warning.
It is not completely understood what causes TMD. Muscle dysfunction and tightness that this condition is characterized by can be caused by multiple factors. Enough evidence does not exist to prove if some of these factors lead to the condition or if they result from the condition. Some of the common causes include misalignment of the jaws, trauma to the jaws, teeth grinding, poor posture, and stress.
Risk factors associated with this medical problems are also many. For instance, maintain poor head posture for extended period strains the jaws and neck, causing TMD. Excessive stress causes the jaw to clench and the muscle to tense. The risk of developing the problem is also higher is women aged between 18 and 44. Patients with chronic inflammatory arthritis are also predisposed to develop TMD. Finally, TMD is common in people misaligned teeth and jaws.
This condition is treatable through various treatment options. Medications are available for relieving one from the pain caused by the disease. Some of the medication prescribed are pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Usually non-steroidal non-inflammatory medications are prescribed. These include ibuprofen such as Advil and Montrin IB. Pain relief may also be relieved by tricyclic antidepressants. If necessary, muscle relaxants are prescribed too.
In cases where traditional methods do not relieve the pain, surgical methods may be opted for. Open-joint surgery is usually an option in cases where the cause of the problem is structural. The surgery is done to repair or replace the damaged joint to resolve the problem.
Open-joint surgery is not a procedure without risks and complications. It is more risky than traditional treatments. As such, it important to discuss with the doctor about the pros and cons associated with the process before settling on it. Suitability of candidates varies and it is why it is important to consider all factors involved.
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