There are quite a few different problems you can have with your mouth. From cavities to gum disease, there’s no shortage of issues you need to be on the lookout for. One that we don’t often think about, however, is problems with our jaw.
Specifically, there’s a disorder you can develop called TMJ disorder. Today, we’re going to look at what it is, how to recognize it, and how to treat it.
What is it?
TMJ disorder is the abbreviation for temporomandibular joint disorder. The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw bone to your skull. When it gets irritated, infected, or otherwise affected, you end up with what most any dentist will diagnose as TMJ disorder.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include a clicking or popping in the jaw, pain that doesn’t go away, chronic headaches, and a feeling that your jaw is misaligned. If any of these symptoms occur, you’ll want to come see Dr. David S. Peterson as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you run the risk of letting the problem get worse.
How is it treated?
TMJ disorder is usually something that you’ll have to deal with multiple times throughout your life. While there isn’t a cure, per say, there are a lot of treatment options available that can help you be more comfortable.
Some of those treatments include medication to reduce inflammation, jaw exercises to strengthen the TMJ, and at the most extreme, surgery to attempt to fix any problems. The team here at The Dental Studio in Sandy, Utah, will work side-by-side with you to determine what the best treatment option is for you.
To make an appointment, or if you have more questions, call us today at 801-278-4787.