TMJ disorder is technical term that describes a problem in the temporomandibular joints that hinge your jaw or the surrounding muscles and ligaments. The sophisticated ball and socket joints, enable you to open your mouth, chew food, and speak.
Early symptoms of TMJ disorder often could include a chronic dull ache in front of your ears or around your temples. This might also be accompanied by sharp pain when opening and closing your mouth, biting down or chewing on hard foods.
Chronic night grinding or your teeth is a common cause of TMJ disorder. Past dislocation in one or both joints, arthritis or inflammation issues could also be the root cause.
Dr. Hueler, Dr. Lyu, and Dr. Voegele usually advocates a two-stage treatment strategy. A minor case of TMJ disorder can sometimes be remedied with basic lifestyle modification. This might include eating softer foods, taking over the counter anti-inflammatory medication or using heat packs to relax muscle tension.
If after a few weeks your symptoms don’t start to improve then more assertive measures may be called for. Dr. Hueler, Dr. Lyu, and Dr. Voegele might prescribe a custom fitted night guard might if you’ve had issues with grinding your teeth at night.
Other treatment options might also involve the use of prescription anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxers and various rehabilitation exercises.
If you have questions or concerns about TMJ disorder, please call us at 952-226-7940 to schedule an appointment. Early diagnosis often speeds treatment.