715-352-2700TMJ is the shortened version of Temporormandibular Joint Disorder. This is an extremely bothersome issue with the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It is a condition that is closely associated with an excessive habit of clenching the jaw and grinding of the teeth. Without treatment, the disorder causes pain in the joint of the jaw and fatigue to the muscles, causing soreness and impeded movement.
It is difficult to know what factors cause TMJ. In every person, it can be different. There is a plethora of factors, such as arthritis, injury to the jaw, and even a genetic predisposition. Usually, an accompanying element to TMJ is that the patient generally tends to clench and/or grind their teeth. In some cases, the patient doesn’t even realize it is happening. They may only become aware after being interviewed by their dentist as they plays detective. They may come to the conclusion that a patient’s teeth have been wearing away the enamel at a higher rate than is typical, which may clue them in. There may even be damage in teeth, cracks or chips, that are symptoms of the disorder. To know what to look for we have made the following list:
TMJ: What to Look Out For
-Clenching and grinding
-Pain in or around the ear
-Hearing a popping sound when chewing
-Problems chewing normally
-Pain or tenderness around the Jaw
-Joint pain in the jaw
-Difficulty opening and closing of the mouth
-Jaw muscle soreness
If you need an evaluation for TMJ, Dr. Nichols and Cronkrite would be happy to help you. Please contact Szmanda Dental Edgar to make an appointment at: 715-352-2700, or come by our office in Edgar, Wisconsin.