TMJ Treatment in Kennewick, WA
Ever felt like your jaw is locking up, and you have to reposition it for the discomfort to go away? In terms of noises, do you hear cracking and popping when you chew or open your mouth too wide? These could be signs of a disorder known as temporomandibular joint disorder, which affects approximately 10 million Americans.
Anatomy and Physiology of Your Temporomandibular Joint
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the connector that joins your skull to your jawbone. You have two temporomandibular joints, one of both sides of your jaw. From repetitive stress, arthritis, and various other issues, you can develop problems in this area.
Signs of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
Sometimes, your TMJ causes you pain. You might have difficulty moving your mouth wide or from side to side. You could also have tenderness in your jaw muscles. Your issues may extend from your around your mouth to your ear. It can even make chewing difficult or painful. Individuals with TMJ may experience their jaw locking when they open or close their mouth. It’s also possible you’ll hear a click sound when you chew or open your mouth. All of these issues could indicate temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which is usually temporary but can interfere with your daily life.
What Causes Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
It’s difficult to figure out the exact cause of TMJ at our office. Often, the cause of your pain is a combination of several factors. For instance, genetics, arthritis, tooth grinding, an injury, or teeth grinding could lead to TMD and require TMJ/TMD treatment in Kennewick.
TMJ/TMD Treatment in Kennewick
If TMD causes you unpleasant symptoms, a dentist near you can provide TMJ/TMD treatment in Kennewick. One common treatment our dental practitioner uses is a mouth guard, which prevents you from grinding your teeth. You could also benefit from lifestyle advice.
However, in some cases, a dentist near you prescribes a medication like a tricyclic antidepressant to control your teeth grinding. On the other hand, you could benefit from a muscle relaxer because it could reduce your pain.
Stop suffering from jaw pain when a dentist near you at A Family Dental Center, serving Kennewick and general vicinity, can provide you with TMJ/TMD treatment to help. Contact us today for an appointment.