Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction: What It Is and How to Address It

If you’re one of the millions of people who experience nighttime teeth grinding and jaw clenching, you may be able to find relief with Dr. Dorren Wilson of Covington Family Dentistry. Also called bruxism, jaw clenching and teeth grinding can cause temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which causes significant issues such as a locked jaw that affect many areas of your life. Let’s learn more about temporomandibular joint dysfunction and how Dr. Wilson can help with treatment. 

The Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ)

The TMJ is a hinge-like joint located on both sides of the face. It connects the skull to the lower jaw and plays an important role in helping you close and open your mouth when you talk, chew, laugh, or yawn. If your TMJ is working as it should, you may not even be aware of it. 

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

When an individual has TMJ dysfunction, they can experience jaw pain, limited joint mobility, and severe headaches. TMJ pain is very similar to the symptoms of tension headaches or migraines. Here are some of the symptoms of this painful disorder:

• Jaw locked in the closed or open position.
• Grating sensations when you open or close your mouth.
• Clicking jaw.
• Popping jaw.
• Neck pain.
• Facial pain.
• Tender and swollen jaws.
• Jaw pain.
• Uncomfortable chewing.
• Recurring headaches or migraines.

What Is Bruxism? 

Bruxism is the clinical term for jaw clenching and teeth grinding that often causes TMJ dysfunction. Individuals who live with nighttime bruxism rarely realize they do it. Severe cases of bruxism can cause teeth grinding and TMJ clenching up to 100 times every night. Over time, the effect on a person’s jaw and teeth can be severe. 

Conservative TMJ Pain Remedies

You can manage TMJ pain using noninvasive approaches, such as jaw exercises, stress management techniques, and medication to control infection and inflammation. 

Teeth Clenching Night Guards

One of the most effective treatments for bruxism is a night guard. These guards are made from strong plastic and are designed especially to fit your mouth. The oral appliance is very thin and fits precisely, eliminating discomfort for the patient. 

Powerful Vertical Forces that Cause Pain

When people grind their teeth at night, the teeth and jaw experience the powerful vertical forces of jaw clenching and teeth grinding. A night guard can help absorb these forces to give you relief from the daytime pain often associated with TMJ dysfunction. 

An Affordable and Comfortable Solution

Opting for a night guard can potentially save you money. This option is much more affordable than costly alternatives. Moreover, it’s usually more effective than more conservative approaches. Equally important, when you wear your night guard, you can still speak and breathe normally. 

Your Source for TMJ Locked Jaw Treatment in Covington, GA

If you’re living with the effects of bruxism and TMJ pain, Dr. Doreen Wilson and the team at Covington Family Dentistry in Covington, Georgia, can help. Call us today at (770) 787-2230 to learn more about how an oral appliance can impact your life. 

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