What Causes TMJ?

There are several causes of TMJ disorder. Some of the most common causes include:

• Stress
• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Jaw injury
• Arthritis
• Movement of the disc between the ball and the socket of the joint

Stress often leads to teeth grinding, which puts pressure on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to TMJ disorder. The impact of a jaw injury can also cause problems with the joint. People with arthritis or other joint conditions are also more prone to TMJ.

What are the Symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms of TMJ disorder vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Jaw pain or discomfort
• Pain in one or both ears
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth
• Difficulty in opening or closing your mouth
• Locking of the jaw when you open or close it

The symptoms can be mild or severe; some people may experience no symptoms. If you notice any of these symptoms or worry you may have TMJ, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Ron Logan today. 

Treatment of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder treatment depends on the symptoms and underlying causes. 

Mild Cases

Self-care practices help alleviate symptoms. Some self-care methods include stress management, avoiding hard or chewy foods, no habitual gum-chewing, and using heat or ice packs on the jaw. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help reduce pain and inflammation as well. 

Severe Cases

For more severe cases, medical treatment may be necessary. Dr. Logan may prescribe muscle relaxants and anti-anxiety medication to help reduce stress and manage pain. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help relieve muscle tension and restore joint function. If necessary, Dr. Logan may suggest a splint or night guard to help reduce teeth grinding and relieve pressure on the joint.

Prevention of TMJ

You can reduce your risk of developing TMJ disorder by following some self-care practices. 

Hard Sustenance: Avoid chewing hard or chewy foods like ice, gum, or tough meat.

Eat Slower: Take breaks between meals to allow your jaw muscles to rest.

Stress Management: Manage your stress levels by engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as yoga, meditation, or reading. 

Night Guards: If you habitually grind your teeth, talk to your dentist to explore prevention methods, such as a night guard.

TMJ Therapy at Personal Touch Dentistry

Dr. Ron Logan and his team believe in providing excellent dental care with a personal touch. Struggling with frequent jaw pain can be frustrating, and no one wants to deal with it daily. That is why we proudly provide TMJ therapy for our patients with more severe cases of TMJ disorder. Our office in the Winston-Salem area offers a relaxing atmosphere to help our patients feel calm during their care. We also provide amenities while you wait to be seen for your appointment, including coffee and hot chocolate. Get the quality care you need today at Personal Touch Dentistry!

TMJ Treatment in Winston-Salem, NC

TMJ disorder can cause discomfort and pain that can affect your daily life. Knowing the causes and symptoms of TMJ can help identify the condition and seek appropriate treatments. Self-care practices, medical treatment, and prevention methods can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of developing the condition. 

Contact us at Personal Touch Dentistry if you experience any of the symptoms of TMJ today!