TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This joint is where the opening and closing of the jaw takes place. The lower jaw connects to bones that are part of the skull; the ball and socket are protected by a soft padding of material. The condition normally strikes between the ages of 20 and 40, and more women suffer from it than do men.
The disorder can be quite painful and can last for short intervals, or it can be a constant pain that lasts for years.
The signs and symptoms of TMJ in Butler PA:
There are a number of common signs that may indicate the condition:
* Tenderness in the jaw, face, ear and neck
* Discomfort and difficulty with chewing and opening the mouth wide
* Pain when yawning
* Clicking in the jaw joint
* Hard to open and close the mouth, a tendency for the jaw to lock either open or closed
* Teeth that do not come together properly during biting and chewing
The causes of TMJ in Butler PA are not fully understood and there is a call for more research to determine what the exact causes may be. There does seem to be general agreement that jaw trauma is one of the primary causes. It may be that anxiety; stress, and arthritis can also play a role in the disorder.
The diagnosis:
There are no specific tests that are commonly used; however, the dentist or oral surgeon can check alignment of the upper and lower jaw and check for any specific sensitivity in the joint for tenderness, clicking, popping, seizing or great difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. X-rays may be taken to see the specifics of the joint and MRIs may be taken to allow the dentist to observe the underlying soft tissue.
As sinuses, sinus headaches and earaches can also cause pain in the region, it is a good idea to consult with a medical doctor to first rule out these types of disorders.
Treating the problem:
TMJ Butler PA can be short lived in some people and last for years in others. It can often just disappear as quickly as it appeared. If the pain persists, the dentist will at first recommend very conservative treatments such as applying ice-packs to the region, avoiding big yawns and chewing gum, stress reduction, exercise the jaw in all directions and taking anti-inflammatory drugs, either prescription or over-the-counter.
If the conservative treatment has no positive effect, the oral surgeon will recommend more aggressive treatment. This treatment can consist of orthodontics or surgery.
Continued research must be undertaken to find out more about TMJ Butler PA; this research can lead to more effective diagnosis and treatment.
If you are one of the many who suffer from TMJ in Butler PA, your possible solution lies with the oral surgeons at Quad County Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. With three offices to serve you, they provide a full range of oral surgery services and treatments.
