TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, implies that the hinge connecting the upper and lower jaw is not working correctly. This hinge is among the most complicated joints within the body, accountable for moving the lower jaw forward, backward and side-to-side. Any issue that prevents this complex system of joints, ligaments, disks and bones from working as it should is called TMJ. Frequently, TMJ feels as though your jaw is popping, clicking, or "getting stuck" for a moment. The precise reason for this misalignment is frequently impossible to determine.

What're the indications of TMJ?

TMJ disorders have many symptoms and indications. It's frequently hard to know for sure if you have TMJ, because one or some of those signs might also be present for other issues. Your Bellflower dentist might help make a correct investigation by taking a complete medical and medical history, conducting a clinical examination and taking appropriate X-rays.

A few of the most frequent TMJ symptoms include: 1. Headaches (frequently mimicking migraines), earaches, and pain and pressure behind the eyes. 2. A clicking or popping sound whenever you open or close your mouth. 3. Pain brought on by yawning, opening the mouth extensively or chewing. 4. Jaws that "get stuck," lock or move outward. 5. Tenderness of the jaw muscles. 6. A surprising change in the way the upper and lower teeth match together.

How's TMJ Treated?

While there's no single cure for TMJ, there are very different treatments you are able to follow which might lessen your symptoms dramatically. Your Bellflower dentist might recommend more than one of the following: Trying to eliminate muscle spasm and pain by employing damp warmth or taking medication like muscle-relaxants, aspirin or other over-the-counter pain-relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. Reducing the damaging effects of clenching and grinding by wearing an appliance, sometimes called a bite plate or splint. Custom-made to suit your mouth, the appliance slips over the top teeth and keeps them from grinding against the lower teeth. Learning relaxation methods to help control muscle tension in the jaw. Your dentist might suggest you seek out training or counseling to help remove stress. When the jaw joints are being affected, and other remedies have been unsuccessful, jaw joint operation can be recommended by your Bellflower, CA dentist in some cases.