Dental Talk: Understanding the Causes of TMJ

Facial expressions such as smiling, laughing, talking, and nibbling are all day-to-day actions that you frequently carry out with little to no conscious thinking. However, if you struggle with temporomandibular joint disorder (likewise known as TMJ), even the simplest activities could create significant discomfort.

What is temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)?

The temporomandibular joints are the attachment points for the muscles and tendons that control jaw and mouth movement. Clicking and locking the jaw, headaches, neck pain, and ringing in the ears are all signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) diseases like arthritis, dislocation, injury, or infection.

Though countless people experience temporary discomfort when exercising their facial muscles, TMD can become persistent in some and be intensified by habits including clenching, biting, swallowing, and grinding teeth.

Prevalent Causes of TMJ

For many individuals, TMJ disorder symptoms tend to flare up momentarily and afterward vanish over a few days. More complex situations that create ongoing pain or swelling may need professional treatment to maintain jaw function and a satisfactory quality of life.

TMJ issue is the most widespread root cause of severe jaw pain, while many possible causes exist. Numerous lifestyle and physical aspects can cause joint swelling and muscular strain.

Jaw and Teeth Misalignments

Problems with the jaw joint are common in people whose jaws and teeth are not correctly placed. Injuries and genetic disabilities involving the jaw are two typical root causes of jaw misalignment. When one’s teeth aren’t correctly straightened, they do not fit together the way they should, which can lead to an underbite or overbite.

TMJ disorder can develop from either of these problems. However, if you are uneasy about your uneven teeth, you can go to an oral clinic that offers Invisalign and dental bridges Kelowna to correct your teeth virtually undetectable way.

Arthritis

Arthritis can happen in any joint for a variety of reasons. TMJs are common in those with rheumatoid arthritis, a condition defined by persistent swelling of the joints. If you have jaw discomfort and suspect arthritis is responsible, a competent emergency dentist Burnaby can identify the trouble and suggest a treatment method.

Stress

The detrimental results of stress on the body are a considerable problem in modern culture. Trauma can trigger genuine physical reactions; one of those is the TMJ problem. Joint discomfort and rigidity can be brought on by chronic muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, and head. Lack of sleep and clenching/gnashing teeth are common responses to stress that can worsen existing issues.

Because dental surgery may be needed in extreme cases of TMJ, it is essential not to ignore any swelling in the body parts discussed above.

Eating Habits

those with TMJ problems should prevent crunchy foods. Painful chewing and muscle exhaustion can lead to a painful skin breakout. Soft meals, smaller-sized bits, and avoiding chewing gum are all recommended so that individuals can avoid more damage to their condition.

Furthermore, TMJ problem is often brought on by a misaligned bite by recent dental work like fillings or dentures. Dentists that specialize in dentures in Lethbridge might help you avoid this issue.

Bottomline

Although several factors can bring on a TMJ problem, countless typical occurrences can bring sudden flare-ups. When patients recognize the most common triggers for their symptoms, they can take preventative measures to minimize pain and inflammation.