What Are the Dangers of TMJ Left Untreated?

TMJ is the common name used to refer to temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ is a disorder of the joint that connects the jaw to the skull on either side of the head. It is a common ailment more prevalent in women than men that is suffered by approximately 65% of Americans at some point throughout their lifetime.

Temporomandibular joint disorder can have several causes, most of which can be easily diagnosed and treated by a TMJ dentist. It is highly suggested that anyone suffering from TMJ visit their dentist as soon as possible, as TMJ left untreated can worsen drastically in a matter of hours and can lead to a variety of serious health problems.

TMJ is often connected with or caused by bruxism, or teeth grinding. When TMJ symptoms include teeth grinding, the wear and tear on a sufferer's teeth can change the shape of the sufferer's teeth, affect the sufferer's bite, and expose their prematurely worn teeth to decay and disease. Teeth grinding brought on by TMJ can also cause headaches and tension in the neck. Often the pain of these ailments will lead to restless nights and can even develop into insomnia. In rare cases, the insomnia brought on by TMJ can lead to depression and have a negative impact on the sufferer's job performance, relationships, and mental stability.

Teeth grinding caused by or leading to TMJ can be easily corrected with a custom fitted night guard. Such a night guard can be crafted by a dentist from a mold of the patient's teeth. Custom night guards protect the teeth while reducing pressure on the jaw, reducing headaches and allowing for a restful night's sleep.

Untreated TMJ can have other affects on a person's oral health as well. It can cause a sufferer to favor one side of their mouth to such an extent that the teeth wear unevenly, the bite shifts, and muscles overdevelop on one side, leaving the sufferer with a lopsided appearance that is extremely difficult to reverse. Untreated TMJ can also lead some people to eating disorders as they will resort to a liquid diet or avoid food altogether to minimize their jaw pain.

Because the temporomandibular joint is so near the ear, significant ear problems can develop as a result of TMJ. Anything ranging from slight pain in the ears to premature loss of hearing can result from TMJ. Some sufferers of TMJ experience damage to their inner ear, which can cause problems with balance or dizziness. Likewise, vision problems can develop as a consequence of TMJ.

The pain felt by TMJ sufferers is not limited to the jaw, though jaw pain can sometimes become so severe that the jaw will lock itself in an open position. In these cases a trip to the emergency room is required to forcibly unlock the jaw. Pain felt by TMJ sufferers can extend to the neck, head, eyes, ears, teeth and shoulders.

Many sufferers try to simply mask their pain instead of addressing it directly with a trip to a TMJ dentist. Self medication with pain pills can temporarily alleviate the pain brought on by TMJ, but in rare cases, the reliance on pills can become so severe that pain medication addictions develop. In fact, there are several reported cases of TMJ sufferers falling victim to alcoholism and/or drug abuse.

TMJ left untreated can become aggravated by talking, eating, and yawning, leading to nearly constant pain that can develop into serious health disorders. And yet the causes of TMJ are usually easily and non-surgically corrected in one trip to a dentist's office. There is simply no reason to live with the pain. The risks of leaving TMJ untreated simply aren't worth it.

Alleviating Arthritis Pain

Living with arthritis can be over-whelming, not only for you - but for family, friends and co-workers. Arthritis refers to an inflammation of the joints. It is known by many names - comprising over 100 diseases and conditions, most of which are associated with pain or stiffness. Arthritis is a chronic pain disease that directly affects millions of Americans. Reports indicate that 40 million Americans suffer with osteoarthritis alone. The most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (often referred to as, Degenerative Joint Disease).

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disorder that causes the immune system to attack its own joints. Osteoarthritis on the other hand, consists of a low-grade inflammation that wears down cartilage and decreases the amount of synovial fluid (both cushion and lubricate the joint areas). The changes in cartilage cause it to break down faster than the body can produce it. When cartilage breaks down, the bones rub together and cause damage and pain. Common areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, especially in the lower neck and lower back, knees, hips and fingers. People describe their symptoms as pain, stiffness (typically in the morning), muscle weakness (especially in the knee), swelling (tender and sore joints), reduced range-of-motion and as hearing cracking or creaking sounds. If weight-bearing joints, such as the hips or knees are involved, mobility can be affected. Therefore, it is crucial to seek arthritis treatment as soon as possible, to avoid the need for surgery.

Arthritis can affect a person at any age, as observed in the x-rays of many people who are 20 years young. Common causes of arthritis include a genetic predisposition, overabundance of microorganisms, build-up of toxins, decreased gut integrity, obesity, poor diet, hormonal imbalances (low estrogen - menopause), trauma, decreased nerve function, lack of exercise and "wear and tear" of the joint (resulting from certain occupations and activities). Joints that do not move properly due to a misalignment of the bones, must not be overlooked, as a major factor in developing arthritis.

If you are seeking arthritis relief a physical examination and diagnostic tests will help to formulate an accurate arthritis diagnosis. Diagnostic options include x-rays, chiropractic and physical therapy evaluations, blood and urine testing, along with a thorough health history and discussion of symptoms. Arthritis treatment is created to suit the age, build, pain levels and general health of the patient. Arthritis treatment options for people with mild to moderate arthritis, may include...

Chiropractic:
Physical manipulation allow joints to be directly adjusted - reducing pain and stiffness. By correcting joint and spine dislocations, chiropractic adjustments help increase range-of-motion. Massage (increases flexibility and circulation), Heat Therapy (increases blood flow and relaxes tissue), Cold Therapy (reduces swelling and pain) and TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation which stimulates pain-inhibiting chemicals in the body).

Physical Therapy and Exercise:
The focus is on pain relief, healing, restoring function and movement and to improve body mechanics. Assistive devices and orthotics, such as tape, braces or splints can help protect joints from further injury and take stress off of joints. Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness and increases flexibility, muscle strength and endurance. Range-of-Motion Exercises help to maintain normal joint movement, relieve stiffness and increase flexibility; Strengthening Exercises help increase muscle strength and Endurance or Aerobic Exercises improve cardiovascular fitness, help control weight and improve overall function. The side effect of exercise is weight reduction, which will place less pressure on joints.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
TCM is based on the belief that the body needs to be in balance to remain healthy. Pain and illness occur when the body is out of balance and there is a disturbance in the body's energy. TCM treatments - acupuncture, herbal medicine and various types of massage, focus on returning the body to a delicate balance.

Lifestyle Recommendations:
It is necessary to change or modify activities that cause pain, modify the home and work areas (use a reacher tool to pick up things off the floor), maintain proper posture while standing, sitting or sleeping and wear comfortable and supportive shoes.

Many people are searching for an arthritis cure, or at the very least - arthritis relief. Living with arthritis can be stressful. At times you may feel overwhelmed, tired or angry. But, there are many ways to cope with arthritis. If needed, Prescription Pain Medication Intervention, Trigger Point Injections, Joint Injections, Epidural Injections, Nerve Blocks, Facet Joint Blocks, Radio Frequency Nerve Ablation may also be recommended by a Pain Management Specialist. Discover innovative arthritis treatments and find relief for arthritis pain.

Is Your Migraine a TMJ Migraine?

Many people who suffer from chronic headaches and migraines do not know that temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) causes them. Your temporomandibular joint is where your lower jaw connects to your skull. When this joint gets out of alignment, it is referred to as TMD, and it can cause many different physical problems.

When your temporomandibular joint is out of alignment, it causes the muscles in your face, head, and neck that surround the joint, to strain at everything they do. Even while at rest, the muscles are having excess stress put on them because of the misaligned joint.

The strained muscles in your head, face, and neck can cause headaches or TMJ migraines. TMJ headaches are often so painful, severe, and frequent that they are misdiagnosed as migraines. One of the ways to determine if you are suffering from headaches or migraines as a result of TMD is by getting diagnosed by a specially trained neuromuscular dentist like Dr. Pavlenko in Edmonton, Alberta.

When the muscles are constantly strained or contracted they can cause tension headaches. TMJ headaches can also be caused by a build-up of blood pressure. When the muscles in your face, head, and neck are strained, they prevent blood from flowing to the correct places. When this happens, your body attempts to correct the problem by sending more blood to the area, which increases blood pressure. This can cause a very painful feeling of pressure around the head, called a vascular headache.

A neuromuscular dentist will work with you to diagnose your headaches or migraines and determine if TMJ is causing them. If it is, he will design a treatment plan specifically suited for you. First he will relax and rid the muscles around the joint to stop the pain they are causing. Then, your jaw will be stabilized so that the best treatment for you can be determined. Finally, the two of you can discuss a long-term treatment that is designed specifically for you.

The symptoms of TMD can cause discomfort and they can lead to serious physical damage. You could be suffering from TMD if you are experiencing symptoms like:

·	Sensitive/Sore Teeth
·	Sore jaw muscles
·	Pain in the head, neck, and shoulders
·	Facial Pain 
·	Headaches
·	Migraines
·	Ringing in the ears
·	Locking of the jaw
·	Clicking/Popping of the jaw
·	Limited jaw movement
·	Worn Teeth
·	Chipped Teeth

Electro Therapy for Effective Pain Relief

For pain relief, a person might be given many recommendations. Some physicians will suggest him to go for painkillers while others might tell him to get physiotherapy.

Electro therapy is one of the ways used for pain relief. It makes use of small electric stimuli to reduce chronic and acute pain. Using electricity to treat pain has been around for more than 100 years. Its safe and non-invasive nature is making it a preferred choice of many acupuncturists.

These medical devices can be used on a standalone basis or with other therapies such as painkillers or massage. Many people were able to reduce their consumption of prescription drugs after getting these sessions.

Below are some electro stimulation devices which people use to reduce pain:

Back Pain TENS Belt

This device makes use of principles of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). Small electric stimuli are generated by the belt, which stimulate nerve endings through the skin. They block pain signals from reaching the brain. The use of belt reduces discomfort and pain.

Electric stimuli also enhance production of endorphins which are body's natural painkillers. You might have a tingling sensation on your back where the electrodes come in contact with your skin.

Electro acupuncture TENS

This makes use of TENS principles too in which electric stimuli block pain signals from reaching the central nervous system.

In traditional Chinese acupuncture, needles are inserted over specific points on our body to re-balance the normal energy flow in body. This electronic device helps you locate acupoints on your body.

You can then choose between the various programs available such as kneading, tapping and massaging, each having varying intensity levels. It is useful for toothache, joint pain, shoulder and neck pain and upper abdominal pain.

Interferential device

An interferential device can be used for patients with deep pain. It uses two separate frequencies which work together to create a deep penetrating pulse. It faces less resistance in penetrating the skin than TENS. The frequencies interfere with pain signals at the spinal cord level and hence you feel less pain.

They are used in pre and post-op orthopedic surgeries, joint injury syndrome and muscle spasms.

Acutron Microlight

This revolutionary technology, which is used by acupuncturists and healers, makes use of Microcurrent to relieve pain. Different settings and intensity can be set according to patients' needs. It can be used for Sub acute and chronic pain relief for large regions of the body, such as the knees, hips, shoulders and lower back.

The Psoas Muscles and Abdominal Exercises For Back Pain

Common opinion notwithstanding, the proper purpose of abdominal exercises is to awaken control of the abdominal muscles so they coordinate better with the other muscles of the trunk and legs (which include the psoas muscles). It is that better coordination that improves alignment, and not merely higher tone or strength. When the psoas muscles achieve their proper length, tone (tonus) and responsiveness, they stabilize the lumbar spine in movement as well as when standing, giving the feeling of better support and "strength". Mutual coordination of the psoas and other muscles causes/allows the spine and abdomen to fall back, giving the appearance of "strong" abdominal muscles -- but it is not the strength of abdominal muscles, alone, but the coordination of all the involved muscles that gives that appearance.

To improve psoas functioning, a different approach to abdominal exercises than the one commonly practiced is necessary. Instead of "strengthening," the emphasis must be on awareness, control, balancing and coordination of the involved muscles - the purview of somatic education. I will say more...

... but first: A discussion of the methods and techniques of somatic education is beyond the scope of this paper, which confines itself to a discussion of the relation of the psoas muscles, abdominal exercises, and back pain. For that, see the links at the bottom of this article.

The Relationship of Psoas, Abdominal Muscles and Back Pain

The psoas muscles and the abdominal muscles function as agonist and antagonist (opponents) as well as synergists (mutual helpers); a free interplay between the two is appropriate. The psoas muscles lie behind the abdominal contents, running from the lumbar spine to the inner thighs near the hip joints (lesser trochanters); the abdominal muscles lie in front of the abdominal contents, running from the lower borders of the ribs (with the rectus muscles as high as the nipples) to the frontal lines of the pelvis.

Take a moment to contemplate each of these relationships until you can feel or visualize them

• In the standing position, contracted psoas muscles (which ride over the pubic crests) move the pubis backward; the abdominal muscles move the pubis forward. (antagonists)


• In walking, the ilio-psoas muscles of one side initiate movement of that leg forward, while the abdominals bring the same-side hip and pubis forward. (synergists)


• The psoas major muscles pull the lumbar spine forward; the abdominal muscles push the lumbar spine back (via pressure on abdominal contents and change of pelvic position). (antagonists)


• The psoas minor muscles pull the fronts of attached vertebrae (at the level of the diaphragm), down and back; the abdominals push the same area back. (synergists)


• Unilateral contraction of the psoas muscles causes rotation of the torso away from the side of contraction and sidebending toward the side of contraction (as if leaning to one side and looking over ones raised shoulder); abdominals assist that movement.

Now, if this all sounds complicated, it is -- to the mind. But if you have good use and coordination of those muscles, it's simple -- you move well.

Words on Abdominal Exercises

Exercises that attempt to flatten the belly (e.g., crunches) generally produce a set pattern in which the abdominal muscles merely overpower psoas and spinal extensor muscles that are already set at too high a level of tension.

High abdominal muscle tone from abdominal crunches interferes with the ability to stand fully erect, as the contracted abdominal muscles drag the front of the ribs down. Numerous consequences follow:
(1) breathing is impaired,
(2) compression of abdominal contents results, impeding circulation,
(3) deprived of the pumping effect of motion on fluid circulation, the lumbar plexus, which is embedded in the psoas, becomes less functional (slowed circulation slows tissue nutrition and removal of metabolic waste; nerve plexus metabolism slows; chronic constipation often results),
(4) displacement of the centers of gravity of the body's segments from a vertical arrangement (standing or sitting) deprives them of support; gravity then drags them down and further in the direction of displacement; muscular involvement (at the back of the body) then becomes necessary to counteract what is, in effect, a movement toward collapse. This muscular effort
(a) taxes the body's vital resources,
(b) introduces strain in the involved musculature (e.g., the extensors of the back), and
(c) sets the stage for back pain and back injury.

The psoas has often been portrayed as the villain in back pain, and exercise is often intended to overpower the psoas muscles by pushing the spine and abdomen back. However, it is obvious from the foregoing that "inconvenient" consequences result from that strategy. A more fitting approach is to balance the interaction of the psoas and abdominal muscles.

When the psoas and the abdominal muscles counterbalance each other, the psoas muscles contract and relax, shorten and lengthen appropriately in movement. The lumbar curve, rather than increasing, decreases; the back flattens and the abdominal contents move back into the abdominal cavity, where they are supported instead of hanging forward.

It should be noted that the pelvic orientation, and thus the spinal curves, is also largely determined by the musculature and connective tissue of the legs, which connect the legs with the pelvis and torso. If the legs are not directly beneath the pelvis, but are somewhat behind (or more rarely, ahead of the pelvis), stresses are introduced through muscles and connective tissue that displace the pelvis. Rotation of the pelvis, hip height asymmetry, and/or excessive lordosis (or, more rarely, kyphosis) follow, all of which affect the psoas/abdominal interplay.

Where movement, visceral (organ) function, and freedom from back pain are concerned, proper support from the legs is as important as the free, reciprocal interplay of the psoas and abdominal muscles.

More on the Psoas and Walking

Dr. Ida P. Rolf described the psoas as the initiator of walking:

Let us be clear about this: the legs do not originate movement in the walk of a balanced body; the legs support and follow. Movement is initiated in the trunk and transmitted to the legs through the medium of the psoas.
(Rolf, 1977: Rolfing, the Integration of Human Structures, pg. 118).

A casual interpretation of this description might be that the psoas initiates hip flexion by bringing the thigh forward. It's not quite as simple as that.

By its location, the psoas is also a rotator of the thigh. It passes down and forward from the lumbar spine, over the pubic crest, before its tendon passes back to its insertion at the lesser trochanter of the thigh. Shortening of the psoas pulls upon that tendon, which pulls the medial aspect of the thigh forward, inducing rotation, knee outward.

In healthy functioning, two actions regulate that tendency to knee-outward turning: (1) the same side of the pelvis rotates forward by action involving the iliacus muscle, the internal oblique (which is functionally continuous with the iliacus by its common insertion at the iliac crest) and the external oblique of the other side and (2) the gluteus minimus, which passes backward from below the iliac crest to the greater trochanter, assists the psoas in bringing the thigh forward, while counter-balancing its tendency to rotate the thigh outward. The glutei minimi are internal rotators, as well as flexors, of the thigh at the hip joint. They function synergistically with the psoas.

This synergy causes forward movement of the thigh, aided by the forward movement of the same side of the pelvis. The movement functionally originates from the somatic center, through which the psoas passes on its way to the lumbar spine. Thus, Dr. Rolf's observation of the role of the psoas in initiating walking is explained.

Interestingly, the abdominals aid walking by assisting the pelvic rotational movement described, by means of their attachments along the anterior border of the pelvis. Thus, the interplay of psoas and abdominals is explained.

When the psoas fails to lengthen properly, the same side of the pelvis is restricted in its ability to move backward (and to permit its other side to move forward). Co-contracted glutei minimi frequently accompany the contracted psoas of the same side, as does chronic constipation (for reasons described earlier). The co-contraction drags the front of the pelvis down. The lumbar spine is bent forward, tending toward a forward-leaning posture, which the extensors of the lumbar spine counter to keep the person upright; as the spinal extensors contract, they suffer muscle fatigue and soreness. Thus, the correlation of tight psoas and back pain is explained.

As explained before, to tighten the abdominal muscles as a solution for this stressful situation is a misguided effort. What is needed is to improve the responsiveness of the psoas and glutei minimi, which includes their ability to relax.

A final interesting note brings the center (psoas) into relation with the periphery (feet). In healthy, well-integrated walking, the feet assist the psoas and glutei minimi in bringing the thigh forward. The phenomenon is known as "spring in the step."

Here's the description: When the thigh is farthest back, in walking, the ankle is most dorsi-flexed. That means that the calf muscles and hip flexors are at their fullest stretch and primed for the stretch (myotatic) reflex. This is what happens in well-integrated walking: assisted by the stretch reflex, the plantar flexors of the feet put spring in the step, which assists the flexors of the hip joints in bringing the thigh forward.

Here's what makes it particularly interesting: when the plantar flexors fail to respond in a lively fashion, the burden of bringing the thigh forward falls heavily upon the psoas and other hip joint flexors, which become conditioned to maintain a heightened state of tension, and there we are: tight psoas and back pain. (Note that ineffective dorsi-flexors of the feet prevent adequate foot clearance of the ground, when walking; the hip flexors must compensate by lifting the knee higher, leading to a similar problem.)

Thus, it appears that the responsibility for problems with the psoas falls (in part, if not largely) upon the feet. No resolution of psoas problems can be expected without proper functioning of the lower legs and feet.

SUMMARY

The psoas, iliacus, abdominals, spinal extensors, hip joint flexors and extensors, and flexors of the ankles/feet are all inter-related in walking movements. Interference with their interplay (generally through over-contraction or non-responsiveness of one or more of these "players") leads to dysfunction and to back pain. The strategy of strengthening the abdominal muscles has been shown to be a misguided effort to correct problems that usually lie elsewhere - which explains why, even though abdominal strengthening exercises are so popular, back pain is still so common. Sensory-motor training (somatic education) provides a more pertinent and effective approach to the problem of back pain than abdominal strengthening exercises.

Straightening Adult Teeth

Crooked teeth not only detract from your overall appearance, they can lead to tooth decay, difficulty chewing, and other dental problems. The majority of people who have naturally crooked teeth address the problem in childhood or adolescence, but the results are not always permanent and crookedness may not develop at all until well into adulthood when wisdom teeth push other teeth out of alignment.

Braces are a common and socially acceptable method for straightening teeth in teenagers, but most adults feel uncomfortable and self-conscious wearing the very visible devices, even when so-called "clear" braces are used. Fortunately, braces are no longer the only way to achieve a perfect smile.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners, much like retainers to gradually move your teeth into the proper position. The entire process can take six months to two years. Each aligner is used for two weeks then you move on to the next aligner. Some people use as many as 60 aligners in the course of straightening their teeth. Using impressions of your teeth and computer imaging the aligners are created to precisely and gradually adjust the position of your teeth in very tiny increments, until they reach the proper position.

Porcelain veneers

If you want a quick fix, porcelain veneers are the way to go. A thin shell of porcelain is crafted and bonded to the front of your teeth. Porcelain veneers look and feel like your natural teeth. They can cover several small imperfections at once, making teeth appear straight, covering chips, cracks, and gaps, and are an alternative to whitening. Porcelain veneers are often more appropriate than straightening when teeth appear crooked due to flaws such as chips and gaps.

Why correct a crooked smile?

You may think that's a silly question, but there is more to it than just looks. Crooked teeth leave gaps and crevices which are hard to clean properly and can lead to tooth decay and serious dental problems. A tooth or teeth that are out of alignment can make biting and chewing painful, causing you to make adjustments in how you chew, eventually leading to a painful and damaging condition called temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ). Of course, most people do want a smile that looks beautiful. Straightening your teeth can boost your self-esteem and can even improve your standing in the workplace.

Two paths: What is your goal?

Before you make a decision about straightening your teeth, you must know what you want to get out of it. Is your main goal to correct misalignment or is it to have teeth that appear straight?
Invisalign requires some commitment and work on your part, but the result is a straight, beautiful smile for the rest of your life. Overall, combining Invisalign with any other procedures you may need such as whitening and caps, is the most thorough and complete method of creating a beautiful smile. It is well worth the investment of your time and money, but expensive and time-consuming dental work is not appropriate for everyone. Many patients dread and fear the process of moving their teeth, and choose porcelain veneers as a quick way to make teeth appear straight. Straightening is usually just a piece of the puzzle. Veneers can accomplish several things in one procedure. If your teeth are very crooked you may not be a good candidate for porcelain veneers, but you should talk to your cosmetic dentist and ask before you assume that your teeth are too crooked for this method.

Basic Information You Should Know About Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

Description of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your jaw to the side of your head. This is the physical connection where the jaw bones meet the skull. A brief review of the anatomy of your head will help you understand important facts that you should know about this disorder. There are two temporomandibular joints, one on both sides of your head that work as one. The term is derived from the bones that form the joint. These include the upper temporal bone which is part of the skull, and the other one is the lower jaw bone which is called mandible. TMJ has numerous important functions that we can't live without. These joints enable us to open our mouth, speak, yawn, and chew the foods you eat. When the muscles used in chewing and the joints of the jaw fail to work in combination with each other, a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) occurs. This is a debilitating disorder that could disrupt everyday functions such as eating, speaking, and sleeping.

Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

Many people experience this type of joint problem. Symptoms may occur on one or both sides of the face, head, or jaw. The symptoms of TMJD may cause one or more of the following:

• Pain and tenderness of the jaw muscles


• Limited movement or locking of the jaw


• Painful clicking or popping in the jaw when you chew, bite, or yawn


• Moderate to severe pain that radiates to the face, jaw, or neck


• A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together


• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth


• Ear pain without any associated infection


• Headache and dizziness


• Anxiety

Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

There are several factors that contribute to the development of this type of joint disorder. Trauma to the jaw or jaw joint may cause TMJ problem, but in most cases, the exact cause is unknown. Any stressful situations can cause or aggravate TMJD. Improper alignment of your teeth also contributes to the development of TMJD. Most discomforts are caused from the overuse of the muscles that surrounds the joint, specifically clenching or grinding of teeth. These excessive habits tire the jaw muscles and lead to discomfort, such as headache or neck pain.

Diagnosis of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

The Diagnosis of TMJD requires recognition of the symptom complex and the findings of impaired mandibular range of motion. Further workup consists of radiographic characterization of the joint. The first-line study is plain tomography of the joint in open and closed positions.

Recent development in TMJ imaging includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI has been found to correlate well with surgical findings in the joint. The gold standard in diagnosis is combination of linear tomography and MRI. Your Cincinnati dentist will assess your condition to come up with the proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

Majority of all cases can be treated by simply resting the joint affected. There are several simple solutions to prevent further damage to your TMJ and treating your symptoms. Most people will experience temporary relief with minor treatment. Taking a non-aspirin pain reliever and practicing stress management and relaxation techniques will do a lot of help. Most treatment for TMJ problem is simple, often can be done at home, and does not require surgery.

More severe cases would definitely require the attention of a TMJ specialist. Proper assessment by the dental specialists in Cincinnati dental office will help address the condition. There are situations that can be treated with physical therapy, ice and hot packs, posture training and orthopedic appliance therapy such as splint or bite guard. When necessary, a stronger form of pain killer or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants or antidepressants may help ease the disturbing symptoms. Proper treatment is necessary to keep the jaw in proper alignment. Be sure to make routine dental appointments, so your doctor can check your TMJ status on a regular basis.