TMJ, the common name for a TMJ disorder, is a condition that may cause everything from minor irritation to substantial discomfort. Patients who suspect they have TMJ should seek professional care to receive official diagnoses.
TMJ disorder pain can disrupt a patient’s day-to-day life in many ways. Fortunately, a patient may not necessarily have to live with this condition. If a patient struggles with a particularly severe case of TMJ, they may be able to undergo a surgical procedure that could essentially cure them.
What is TMJ?
A TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the skull and jawbone. Symptoms of a TMJ disorder include:
Mention these symptoms during your next dental appointment if you’ve been experiencing them. A dentist could take a closer look and determine if a TMJ disorder is the cause. If any of these symptoms are particularly severe or are interfering with your quality of life, seek immediate medical attention.
Potential Causes of TMJ Disorders
A TMJ disorder often results from excessive joint strain. Certain types of injuries might also put one at greater than average risk of developing a TMJ disorder.
Additionally, it seems some patients have a genetic predisposition to developing TMJ disorders. You may thus be more likely to develop this condition if close family members have also developed it.
Treating a TMJ Disorder
In some cases, the pain from a TMJ disorder goes away on its own. Patients may also manage relatively minor TMJ pain by taking over-the-counter pain medications.
If a patient opts for treatment, the nature of said treatment can vary depending on the severity of their condition. Potential treatment options for minor TMJ disorders include:
A TMJ disorder is rarely life-threatening. However, if a patient ignores their condition, it’s possible for the pain resulting from a TMJ disorder to significantly detract from their quality of life.
A patient may consider surgery in these circumstances. Through surgical procedures such as jaw joint replacements, it may be possible to essentially cure a TMJ disorder permanently.
A TMJ Disorder Doesn’t Need to Be a Lifelong Problem
Again, many patients are able to manage their TMJ disorder pain without undergoing any particularly major treatment. That said, if pain from a TMJ disorder is becoming unbearable, it’s important to understand that treatment options are available. With surgery, you may correct the disorder, restoring your comfort for years to come.
Learn More About TMJ Disorder Treatment in Morganville, NJ
Do you suspect you have a TMJ disorder? Do you want to learn more about potential treatment options? If so, our team at Champagne Smiles, in Morganville, NJ, would be happy to answer your questions about this topic. If you’re ready to start your journey to better oral health with Dr. Richard Champagne and a truly collaborative and compassionate dental team, contact Champagne Smiles in Morganville, NJ today to schedule your first appointment.
