What is TMJ?
Do you suffer from jaw ache? If so, seek advice from your dentist as you could be suffering from TMJ dysfunction or temporomandibular disorders (TMD) a problem affecting the ‘chewing’ muscles and the joints between the lower jaw and the base of the skull.
If you think you could be suffering from TMJ, the symptoms to look out for are jaw joint clicking/popping, headaches and sometimes even difficulty opening your mouth wide enough to eat.
The exact reason for this joint problem isn’t completely understood but the below conditions can be contributing factors to patients suffering from TMJ:
- stress (one of the mains causes)
- teeth grinding which is called bruxism
- misalignment of the jaw (malocclusion)
- excessive gum chewing
- arthritis or other inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders
- trauma to the teeth or jaw
In some cases i.e. teeth grinding we can help to ease the problem and alleviate the symptoms by creating a bite splint. A bite splint is something we construct based on the individual and is a custom fit, the bite splint should be worn at times when ‘grinding’ or jaw tension is active and when worn correctly it can help to reduce the tension on the jaw and teeth.
Don’t suffer in silence, if we can help you we will, so book a consultation today by calling 01872 573993 or email us at info@stpirandental.co.uk
For TMJ exercises for Pain relief click here
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