TMJ is an acronym that is short for the temporomandibular joint. This joint is the hinge that connects the lower jaw of your skull’s temporal bone to your mandible. The joint is located directly in front of your ears. This joint is flexible enough to give your jaw the freedom it needs to allow you to talk and chew. There are also muscles all around the joint to help control its movement while holding it in place.
Your TMJ is vulnerable to a number of different disorders, including some that dentists have yet to learn tons about. Fortunately, the dental offices such as 1447 Dental Associates has been able to pinpoint a number of the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders. The advancements in dental science have made it possible to provide you with treatment and pain relief.
You want to have a regular Dentist Dallastown PA because they are going to play a huge role in spotting TMJ disorders early. In addition to the cleaning and repairing they do to your teeth, they also look through both your dental and medical history. Various studies suggest that temporomandibular disorders, or TMD for short, can start from something as small as pain and tenderness in the area surrounding your joints. Eventually the problem gets serious enough to make it difficult for you to open and shut your jaw.
If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in your jaw that is not directly linked to your teeth, it is not uncommon for your Dentist Dallastown PA to schedule a physical exam. This exam would include listening to your jaw when you open and close it as well as feeling it. The dentist will apply pressure to various areas in order to determine exactly where the pain is coming from.
Surgery is the most common treatment for this type of condition. Typically, surgery will only be suggested as a treatment option when more mild approaches do not work. Open joint surgery is known to be a very effective way to eliminate the problem and give you control of opening and closing your jaw again.
