Your jaw might be one of those things that you take for granted. It’s always there for you to help you chew food and chat with your friends. However, TMJ disorder can make such everyday tasks unpleasant and even painful. What is this condition, and what are your options for TMJ treatment in Lincoln?
Understanding TMJ Disorder
TMJ is an easy way of referring to the temporomandibular joints, which are the joints that connect your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. When the joints are under a lot of stress, you become subject to all sorts of uncomfortable symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may have TMJ disorder:
- Your bite seems like it has changed from its natural position.
- You have headaches or migraines.
- There is a dull ache in your facial muscles.
- It is uncomfortable for you to chew food.
- There are grinding or popping sounds in your jaw.
- You become dizzy or experience vertigo.
- You have earaches.
- Your jaw locks in place.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
There are several potential causes of TMJ disorder, including:
- Injury to your teeth or jaw
- Misalignment of your teeth
- Poor posture
- Teeth grinding
- Chewing gum
- Stress
- Arthritis
Treating TMJ Disorder
If you suspect you have TMJ disorder, your first step should be to head to your dentist in Lincoln to discuss potential treatment options. Be sure that you choose a dentist like Dr. Louis Olberding, whose extensive education and scientific mindset ensure that he is qualified to treat conditions that afflict the temporomandibular joints.
First, your dentist will discuss your symptoms and examine your jaw. Then, they’ll take measurements and record your jaw position. The results of this initial consultation will determine the best course of treatment for you. Your dentist might recommend that you:
- Perform facial exercises and massage to relieve the stress on your temporomandibular joints.
- Do things you enjoy to reduce stress in your life — and thereby give your TMJ a break.
- Use mild painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to deal with the pain.
- Use a mouth guard to stop you from clenching your teeth at night.
- Undergo physical therapy.
- Have surgery or use injections. Botox injections have been shown to help with TMJ disorder. Surgery is a last resort for severe cases.
- Visit a counselor to learn how to deal with stress in a healthy way.
The ideal way to address your TMJ disorder will likely depend on what is causing it. For example, TMJ disorder that arises from bruxism (teeth grinding) will have a different treatment than a disorder that comes about because of arthritis.
You shouldn’t have to suffer because of discomfort in your jaw. Receiving TMJ treatment in Lincoln may be as simple as visiting your local dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding is an experienced dentist who has studied the temporomandibular joints extensively. He puts his knowledge to use to help his patients recover from TMJ disorder and get back to living life fully. If you’re experiencing discomfort in your jaw or have any questions about oral healthcare, reach out to Dr. Olberding’s office at 402-488-2325.