The Consequences of Untreated TMJ Disorder

Many Americans suffer from TMJ disorder but do not seek treatment. Anyone who is suffering from temporomandibular joint should get it treated as it can lead to other serious medical conditions.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder affects the jaw muscles and joints that control the jaw. It is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. The TMJ is located at the base of the skull, and it is responsible for the movement required for speaking and chewing. When this joint is damaged or injured, it can lead to a pain called TMJ syndrome or disorder. Misaligned teeth, injury to teeth, teeth grinding, stress, arthritis, poor posture, and gum chewing are the significant causes of the temporomandibular joint disorder.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ disorder

• Jaw clicking and popping
• Ear pain
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Locking of the jaw joint
• Stiff jaw muscles

If you experience any of these symptoms, speak to the dentist Albuquerque nm.

Tmj treatment Albuquerque

Treat existing conditions

If TMJ is caused by an existing condition, it is good to treat those oral conditions. For example, if TMJ is caused by tooth grinding or clenching during sleep, then a mouth guard may help to ease the symptoms of TMJ. On the other hand, TMJ disorders are caused by degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, then steroid injects may be recommended.

Surgery

In extreme cases of TMJ disorder, surgery might be the best option. However, surgery is recommended when the actual joints of the jaw are damaged. In very severe cases of TMJ disorders, joint replacement may be recommended. This treatment is rarely required.

Lifestyle changes

Self-care and some lifestyle changes can help ease the symptoms of TMJ. Eating soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, and avoiding tensing the jaw are some of the changes you could make. Gentle exercises such as stretching the jaw slightly and massaging the affected muscles around the jaw will also help.

What will happen if TMJ is not treated?

The symptoms of TMJ might worsen if you visit the dentist and discuss about the Tmj treatment Albuquerque. If left untreated, it can lead to:-

• Joint damage and inflammation
• Affect your teeth
• Increase in muscle contraction can cause pain in your face and neck
• Developments of airway sleep disorder

Life with TMJ can be unpleasant as it not only affects your sleep and mood, but the way you speak and the amount of oxygen you breathe in at night. Treating it at the right time can prevent further complications.

The author is a professional and highly trained dentist in Albuquerque nm. Along with the team of professionals, he provides a wide range of dental treatments, including general dentistry, advanced cosmetic dentistry such as invisalign, implants, crowns, bridges, composite bonding, teeth whitening Albuquerque, etc. Visit https://www.wgregoryrosedds.com/ for more details.

Established in 1973, W. Gregory Rose DDS, PA provides advanced cosmetic dentistry in Albuquerque.