TMJ disorder is the short form of Temporomandibular Joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Every human has one of these joints on each side of the head, somewhere around the ear. Anything that you do to move your jaw requires these joints to function properly. That means you can’t eat, talk, or even smile and frown without functioning TMJ.
What is TMJ Disorder?
This is a disorder that develops when the Temporomandibular joints stop functioning as they naturally should. It can happen on both sides to both joints in some people while others are only affected on one side of the head.
Not everyone who suffers from TMJ disorder will experience all of these TMJ symptoms. Not everyone feels the same thing when they suffer from TMJ disorder so some patients may go long periods of time without realizing they have a legitimate disorder.
TMJ Treatment
Treatment often starts with a basic diagnosis Dr. James Block DDS can diagnose TMJ Disorder and provide a targeted treatment to resolve your unique issues. Dr. Block DDS goal is to provide relief as quickly as possible enabling you to return to living with out headaches.
In some cases it may never be known what causes TMJ disorder, but here are some of the more common known causes:
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Below are a general list of Symptoms and Causes of TMJ Disorder. These are some of the most common signs that TMJ disorder has set in:
What Are TMJ Symptoms
- Ear pain that doesn’t go away easily
- Stiff jaw
- Sore sensation or pain the jaw
- Problems opening and shutting the mouth
- Trouble eating
- Popping or clicking noises when the jaw is moved
- Consistent headaches
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
- Overuse or strain of the jaw
- Injury during sports or physical activity
- Mistakes during dental procedures
- Mental distress or trauma
TMJ Treatment
Once the question “what is TMJ?” is answered, most people immediately want to know how to treat TMJ disorder. Dr. Block will provide a full assessment along with his recommendations, TMJ treatments are as varied as the common TMJ disorder symptoms.