TMJ disorders are highly painful bite disorders that occur when there is stress or injury to the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). These joints help connect the jaw bone to the skull. If you have TMD, you can clench or grind your teeth, experience regular headaches, and encounter jaw pain. TMJ treatment in Groesbeck, TX, can reduce these symptoms and prevent long-term damage to your joints and muscles.
TMJ treatment is one of our restorative dentistry treatment options. Treating TMJ disorders can renew the function of the teeth and jaw. Visting Groesbeck Family Dental, we offer TMJ treatment, which can also make everyday life more comfortable.
Why Do I Have a TMJ Disorder?
It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes TMJ. Usually, a combination of factors contributes to the condition.
1. Jaw Injuries and Trauma
One of the most direct causes of TMJ disorder is physical trauma to the jaw or head. A blow to the jaw or a heavy impact on the side of the face can damage the temporomandibular joints or the surrounding muscles, leading to inflammation, misalignment, or dislocation. Even minor injuries, such as those sustained in contact sports or car accidents, can disrupt the normal function of the TMJ, resulting in pain and restricted movement.
2. Arthritis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the temporomandibular joints. Osteoarthritis involves the wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, causes joint lining inflammation, which can result in joint damage and deformity.
In both cases, joint degeneration or inflammation can lead to TMJ disorder, which has symptoms such as chronic pain, limited jaw movement, and clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw.
3. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding and Clenching)
Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, is a significant contributor to TMJ disorder. The excessive pressure exerted on the teeth and jaw muscles during grinding or clenching can strain the temporomandibular joints, leading to pain and inflammation.
Over time, bruxism can cause the jaw muscles to become tight and sore and wear down the cartilage in the TMJ, resulting in long-term joint dysfunction. Bruxism often occurs unconsciously during sleep, making it challenging to control without intervention, such as using a nightguard.
4. Malocclusion (Misaligned Bite)
A misaligned bite, or malocclusion, can cause uneven pressure on the teeth and jaw joints, leading to TMJ disorder. When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly, it can strain the muscles and joints responsible for jaw movement. Over time, this imbalance can cause the TMJ to become inflamed or misaligned, leading to pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Orthodontic treatments, such as braces or Invisalign, can help correct malocclusion and alleviate TMJ symptoms.
5. Stress and Muscle Tension
Stress is a common but often overlooked cause of TMJ disorder. When a person is under stress, they may unconsciously clench their jaw or grind their teeth, which can strain the TMJ and surrounding muscles. Chronic stress can also lead to muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and jaw, exacerbating TMJ symptoms. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and physical therapy, can help reduce stress-related TMJ issues.
6. Genetics
Genetics can also play a role in the development of TMJ disorder. Individuals with a family history of TMJ issues may be more prone to developing the condition due to inherited structural abnormalities or predispositions to arthritis or other joint-related conditions.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
You likely have TMD if you have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Difficulty eating hard foods
- Improper bite (mallocclusion)
- Jaw popping and clicking when eating
- Neck and back pain
- Jaw pain and soreness
Contact our office if you notice any of these problems. Treating TMD can improve your quality of life by reducing discomfort. If you leave TMD untreated, you can experience tooth wear, chronic pain, and damage to your joints.
TMJ Treatment in Groesbeck, TX
There are multiple common ways to treat TMD. A combination of all of these treatments is useful if you have TMD:
Night Guards
A night guard is a mouthguard-like appliance covering upper or lower teeth. We recommend night guards for patients who clench and grind their teeth during sleep. Many patients do not realize they clench and grind their teeth unless they wake up with headaches or jaw and tooth pain.
Uneven bites can contribute to bruxism. To create a night guard, we must first measure your bite to see which areas are worn more than others. This will help us ensure the night guard is even. Then, we take dental impressions. We send these impressions to a lab, where technicians create the night guard from acrylic.
Wearing this custom night guard during sleep will prevent your upper and lower teeth from touching. The night guard will also relieve pressure on your jaw. Regular use of a night guard can help prevent morning headaches due to teeth clenching and grinding.
Physical Therapy
In addition to night guards, we recommend visiting a physical therapist. During physical therapy, you can learn jaw, arm, and upper back exercises to work the muscles in the upper body. Tension in the upper body can contribute to TMJ symptoms.
Physical therapists also use heat and massage to relax the facial muscles. Making appointments with physical therapists can help manage your symptoms. Physical therapists help teach relaxation techniques and exercises you can use at home to address TMJ flare-ups.
At-Home Care
Lifestyle changes can help reduce strain in the upper body, especially the jaw. Poor posture and stress can contribute to TMJ symptoms. Avoid hunching over when you’re on your phone or computer. Placing objects higher up as you read or work can reduce stress on your head and neck.
To help relax your jaw, place the tip of the tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your upper teeth. Notice when you’re clenching your jaw. In those moments, you can relax your jaw. We may also recommend eating soft foods for multiple weeks to reduce your TMJ and jaw stress.
If you have TMD due to a severe injury to your jaw, you may require surgery. However, this is for the most severe cases. Surgery can repair the cartilage disc in the joint. This disc helps you smoothly open and close your jaw. Damage to the disc can contribute to ongoing TMJ problems.
The Consequences of Untreated TMJ
When left untreated, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can cause serious problems. When this joint becomes irritated or damaged, it can lead to pain and difficulty in daily activities. Ignoring TMJ disorder can make symptoms worse over time and even cause permanent damage.
Increased Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common signs of untreated TMJ disorder is ongoing pain. The discomfort often starts in the jaw but can spread to the face, neck, and shoulders. Due to the strain on the surrounding muscles, many people experience frequent headaches or migraines. Over time, the pain can become more intense, making simple tasks like talking or eating uncomfortable.
Difficulty Eating and Speaking
TMJ disorder affects how the jaw moves, making it harder to chew food or speak clearly. Some people may hear clicking or popping sounds when they open their mouths, while others may find their jaw stuck or locked. This stiffness can make it challenging to eat a normal diet, forcing people to choose softer foods or avoid certain meals altogether.
Increased Risk of Tooth Damage
Extra pressure is placed on certain teeth when the jaw doesn’t align properly. This uneven force can cause teeth to wear down, chip, or crack over time. Many people with untreated TMJ disorder also grind or clench their teeth, which weakens enamel and increases the risk of cavities. Long-term dental damage may require costly repairs like crowns, fillings, or even extractions without treatment.
Chronic Headaches and Ear Problems
Since the TMJ is located near the ears, untreated TMJ disorder can lead to ear-related issues. Many people experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus), a sensation of fullness, or even dizziness. Chronic headaches and tension in the temples are common, as the jaw muscles stay tense and inflamed. These symptoms can interfere with daily life, making concentrating or enjoying activities difficult.
Jaw Joint Damage and Arthritis
Ignoring TMJ disorder can cause permanent damage to the jaw joint. Over time, the joint’s cartilage may wear down, leading to arthritis in the jaw. This can make movement even more painful and limit the ability to open and close the mouth. Surgery may be needed to repair or replace the joint in severe cases.
Reduced Quality of Life
The constant pain and discomfort from untreated TMJ disorder can make daily life frustrating. Many people struggle with eating, sleeping, and socializing because of their symptoms. Sleep disturbances caused by jaw pain can lead to fatigue and mood changes, affecting overall well-being.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Learn more about TMD and related problems with answers to these common questions:
Can stress cause or worsen TMJ disorders?
Yes, stress is a common contributing factor to TMJ disorder. When stressed, people often grind or clench their teeth, which puts pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Stress can also cause muscle tension in the jaw and neck, exacerbating TMJ pain. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and healthy coping mechanisms is important in treating and preventing TMJ symptoms.
Are there lifestyle changes that can help with TMJ?
Yes, certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorder. These include avoiding hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw, practicing good posture, reducing stress, and performing jaw relaxation exercises. Sleep habits can also play a role, so avoiding sleeping on your stomach or with your jaw clenched is important. Regular breaks to rest the jaw throughout the day can also be helpful.
Can TMJ cause headaches?
Yes, TMJ disorder is often associated with headaches, especially tension-type headaches and migraines. The pain in the jaw joint can radiate to the head, causing discomfort in the temples or the forehead. Additionally, muscle tension and teeth grinding related to TMJ disorder can trigger headache pain. Treating the underlying TMJ issues can help reduce the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
Can TMJ cause ear problems?
Yes, TMJ disorder can sometimes cause earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness in the ears. The temporomandibular joint is located near the ear, so pain or inflammation in the joint can affect the ear structures. If you experience persistent ear problems along with jaw pain, it’s important to see a healthcare professional to evaluate whether TMJ disorder is the cause.
What are the risks of untreated TMJ disorder?
If left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to chronic pain, joint damage, and increased wear and tear on the teeth. Over time, the jaw joint may become more damaged, leading to difficulty opening or closing the mouth, tooth damage from grinding, and even permanent changes in the bite. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications from TMJ disorder.
Can you cure TMJ?
While TMJ disorder may not always be fully “cured,” it can often be managed effectively with treatment. In many cases, non-invasive therapies such as mouthguards, physical therapy, and stress management can significantly reduce symptoms and improve jaw function. For more severe cases, dental adjustments or surgery may be necessary. Treatment aims to alleviate pain, restore jaw function, and improve quality of life.
Treat Your Jaw Pain
Are you looking for effective TMJ treatment in Groesbeck, TX? Call Groesbeck Family Dental today at (254) 556-3973. Schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Todd Collins online.