Jaw Joint, or TMJ Problems

Do you suffer from jaw pain, headaches, earaches, or inability to open wide?

A TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder may be the cause.

TMJ disorder is a misalignment of the upper and lower jaws.  It is aggravated by stress and is often connected with chronic jaw clenching and (often nocturnal) teeth grinding.

The signs...
When the TMJ, located in front of the ear, is not working properly, it can cause muscle spasms, ear pain,  neck pain, and headaches.  You may notice pain or hear a clicking/popping noise when you open and close your mouth or yawn.

The treatment...
When stress-related grinding is a contributing factor, it is very important to find a way to relax.  Those who have difficulty finding a way to relax may wish to seek counseling or engage in stress-reducing activities, such as yoga or massage.  Some may find that muscle relaxants prescribed by your dentist help the situation.  Physical therapy can also be helpful to those who need additional help alleviating pain and stress.  To relieve stress, cut down on caffeine, take warm baths, and make attempts to embrace a calmer lifestyle.

When grinding is caused by an abnormal bite, treatment may involved the reduction of 'high spots' on your teeth.  Another treatment involves the use of a plastic mouth guard during sleep to prevent the harmful effects of tooth grinding and alleviate the muscle tension associated with it.  More serious cases of grinding may be treated by reshaping or reconstructing the biting surfaces with crowns or inlays.