What Is TMJ/TMD?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to perform essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint or the muscles surrounding it become inflamed, irritated, or misaligned, it can result in TMJ/TMD near you. This disorder can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
- Headaches, particularly around the temples
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Facial swelling
While these symptoms are common, they can range from mild discomfort to severe, persistent pain. Over time, TMD can interfere with daily life, making it essential to seek treatment.
Why Are Women More Affected by TMJ/TMD?
One of the most interesting aspects of TMJ is the increased frequency of disorder among women. Several studies show that women present TMD more than men, and typically present in individuals ages 20 to 40.
Hormonal fluctuations are another important contributor to the gender effect. Some studies show that estrogen, the most notable sex hormone among females, has demonstrated an ability to impact the tissues comprising the TMJ, making them prone to inflammation and dysfunction. Although the role of estrogen may promote increased blood flow and relaxation of tissues in several areas of the body, it may encourage changes in TMJ stability in the joint.
Additionally, women are more likely to experience conditions that can exacerbate TMD symptoms, such as bruxism (teeth grinding) or jaw clenching, both of which are common stress responses. Women also report higher levels of stress and anxiety than men, which may contribute to muscle tension and jaw issues.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for TMJ/TMD
While hormonal fluctuations in women may increase the risk of TMJ, other factors can contribute to the development of TMD, including:
- Jaw Injury: Any trauma to the jaw or head, such as from a car accident or sports injury, can damage the TMJ or lead to misalignment.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth, often due to stress or sleep disorders, can put a significant strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
- Posture Issues: Poor posture, especially related to long hours spent hunched over computers or mobile devices, can contribute to neck and jaw tension.
- Arthritis: Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can impact the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing inflammation and discomfort.
- Stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can often lead to clenching or grinding of the jaw, which can cause or exacerbate temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Effective Treatment Options for TMJ/TMD in Kent
If you have TMJ/TMD, know that there are numerous treatments that can help. Here are some typical methods to help manage and reduce symptoms of TMD:
- Non-Surgical Treatment:
- Mouthguards or splints: A custom-fitted mouthguard or splint can help protect your teeth from grinding and possibly jaw clenching. These are extremely popular treatments for individuals who grind their teeth during the night.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help alleviate muscle tension around the jaw and improve your jaw’s range of motion. This can include exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve posture.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild to moderate TMJ pain. In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relieve jaw tension.
- Heat and Ice Therapy: By applying either a hot or a cold compress for pain/inflammation in the jaw joint.
- Advanced Dental Treatments:
- Orthodontic Treatment: Sometimes braces can be used in patients with misaligned teeth or bite problems to improve the alignment of teeth and/or relieve pressure in the TMJ.
- Botox injections: In some cases, Botox injections may be necessary to relax overactive jaw muscles and treat TMJ/TMD pain.
- Surgical treatment: Although surgery is not the first option for treatment, some people who have severe TMJ dysfunction may require surgery, such as arthroscopy or even joint replacement.
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Stress management: Methods such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help you manage your stress better and may relieve your muscle tension and/or your bruxism.
- Postural improvements: Your posture, especially when sitting at a desk and using your phone, may add strain to your jaw and neck, so it is important to become aware of your posture.
TMJ/TMD Dentist in your area in Kent
If you are looking to treat your TMJ/TMD in Kent, it is important to find a Dentist in Kent with experience diagnosing and treating TMJ/TMD. Advance Family Dentistry provides comprehensive care for patients with TMJ/TMD. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and customized treatment plans to address the root causes of your jaw discomfort, helping you achieve relief and improve your quality of life.
Whether you’re dealing with the early signs of TMD or have been struggling with chronic symptoms, we’re here to help. Our goal is to work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Take action against jaw pain—call Advance Family Dentistry for expert care.
TMJ/TMD is a disorder that affects millions of people, particularly women, and can affect you daily. Understanding what causes TMD and how to treat it is the key to successfully managing this disorder. If you live in Kent (or are visiting our area) and you are suffering from jaw pain, headaches, or any other symptoms of TMJ, contact a trusted dental provider such as Advance Family Dentistry. We will help you take the next step to a comfortable, pain-free life.
