Our team at Smiles by Dr. W & Dr. R want to wish you a happy, pain-free summer!
That’s why we’re devoting today’s blog to TMJ disorder, its common painful symptoms, and how we can help you find relief here in Boca Raton, FL!
TMJ Disorder Is More Common Than You Might Think!
An estimated three million people are diagnosed with TMJ disorder every year, making it a much more common problem than you might think!
It’s surprising to know how many people are walking around undiagnosed and feeling completely miserable by the chronic pain of this condition.
The reason it can be so painful is because the TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is being used on a constant basis every single day.
It’s the hinge below your ears connecting your jaw to your skull, and it’s in nearly constant motion from yawning, speaking, laughing, and chewing. All that use can slowly lead to misalignment, which would make all those aforementioned mundane tasks pretty noticeable and very uncomfortable! You may even begin to experience symptoms of TMJ disorder, or TMD, out of a longtime habit of grinding your teeth, as well.
For some, however, TMD can come on suddenly due to an accident or injury, or even chronic stress!
Signs & Symptoms Of TMD To Look For
Our experienced professionals will tell you that the list of uncomfortable, and oftentimes painful, symptoms of TMD is extensive. While we are the only ones who can accurately diagnose this disorder, here are several signs and symptoms you can look for to see if you might be suffering from it:
*Tooth & Jaw Pain
*Frequent Headaches & Migraines
*Earache Pain
*Muscle Tension in the Neck, Back, & Shoulders
*Consistent Daily Fatigue
*Popping Sounds In Your Jaw
There certainly are more where this came from, but these are just a few of the most commons signs of TMJ disorder. We can also tell you’re having alignment problems by looking at the wear of your teeth because of how your bite can affect the overall landscape of your teeth and condition of your enamel.
How Our Orthodontists Can Help!
At Smiles by Dr. W & Dr. R, part of our specialty is making sure your jaw joint is nicely aligned. We monitor how a patient’s bite is developing as they grow and will intervene if we notice signs of trouble.
Our team also steps in to help patients who experience jaw joint misalignment and the discomfort that comes with it.
We can use a combination of massage therapy and customized mouth splints to help you not only find relief from TMD pain, but to allow your jaw to heal naturally over time.
The splints, in particular, fit comfortably like a mouthguard so that your upper and lower jaw will stay in a good position and eventually begin to heal so you can live pain-free over the longer term.
Find Relief From TMJ Pain!
Chronic pain can ruin your summer, and our team at Smiley by Dr. W & Dr. R want to keep that from happening.
We can help you find relief from the painful symptoms of TMD so you can enjoy a pain-free summer of fun!
To find solutions for your jaw problems, call our Boca Raton, FL practice today at 561-327-6775 or fill out our convenient online form.
