TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorders, occur when patients subconsciously clench and grind their teeth. These disorders put pressure on the two joints that connect the jaw to the skull. It can also be referred to as TMJ, and patients who struggle with this disorder often live with jaw pain and soreness, daily headaches, and difficulty chewing tough foods or completely opening their mouths.
If these symptoms ring true, our team would love to help with TMJ treatment in our Cedar Park, TX office. TMJ treatment can restore comfort and health to the teeth and jaw. Our office also provides restorative dentistry treatments to the public in Cedar Park, Texas.
Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMD can have many causes. One common cause of TMJ disorders is jaw injury. If you’ve been in an accident or experienced trauma to your face, it can damage the joints or muscles around the jaw, leading to TMJ problems.
Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) are other major causes. Grinding or clenching your teeth puts extra pressure on the jaw muscles and joints, which overwork and inflame over time.
Arthritis can also lead to TMJ disorders. Like other joints in your body, the jaw joints can be affected by arthritis, which causes the cartilage to wear down and lead to pain and stiffness. Sometimes, stress plays a role. When stressed, you may unconsciously tighten your jaw or clench your teeth, which can trigger or worsen TMJ symptoms.
Misalignment of the teeth or jaw can also cause TMJ issues. If your bite is off, it can put uneven pressure on the joints, leading to pain and discomfort.
You may have TMJ if you experience any of the following symptoms on a regular or semi-regular basis:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Face, neck, or ear pain
- Clicking or popping jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
Can TMJ Go Away on Its Own?
The common symptoms of a TMD may only occur during heightened stress or anxiety. In other cases, it may be a chronic condition affecting the patient’s daily life. Whether you experience TMJ symptoms occasionally or regularly, seeking diagnosis and treatment is a good idea.
Regularly clenching and grinding your teeth can have serious consequences. The teeth can become chipped or cracked, your gums may start receding, and the jawbone or the temporomandibular joint itself may become damaged. In serious cases, surgery can even be required.
TMJ Treatment in Cedar Park, TX
There are a few relatively simple and noninvasive treatment options for TMJ. Jaw exercises can help relax the muscles and relieve built-up tension. Taking muscle relaxers and reducing stress as much as possible can also help. Our office creates special custom nightguards that can make a significant difference for patients with TMD.
After we take dental impressions, we can design a durable custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and prevent excess pressure on your temporomandibular joints from teeth grinding every night.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Without treatment, TMJ can break down your jaw joint. Get more information about TMJ treatment below.
What should I avoid doing if I have TMJ disorder?
If you have TMJ disorder, avoid chewing gum, eating hard or chewy foods, and wide mouth movements such as yawning excessively or singing loudly. You should also try not to rest your chin on your hand or sleep on the same side of your face. Reducing repetitive jaw movements gives the joint a chance to rest and recover. Being mindful of your habits can make a big difference in your comfort.
Are TMJ symptoms worse in the morning or evening?
This can vary by person, but many people with TMJ disorder report worse symptoms in the morning. This is often due to nighttime clenching or grinding of the teeth. Others may experience more discomfort in the evening due to muscle fatigue from talking, chewing, or stress throughout the day. Identifying your symptom pattern can help tailor your treatment and improve relief.
Is TMJ disorder more common in women?
Yes, TMJ disorder tends to be more common in women, particularly between the ages of 20 and 40. While the exact reason isn’t fully understood, hormonal differences, particularly involving estrogen, may play a role. Women may also be more likely to seek treatment, which could contribute to higher diagnosis rates. Regardless of gender, TMJ disorder requires a personalized approach to care.
Is TMJ disorder permanent?
TMJ disorder is often temporary, especially if it’s caused by stress or a minor injury. With the right treatment, many people see significant improvement or complete resolution of symptoms. However, in some cases, especially those involving arthritis or structural issues, TMJ disorder may be chronic. Ongoing management and regular checkups can help maintain comfort and function.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
Mild cases of TMJ disorder can sometimes resolve without medical treatment, especially if caused by temporary stress or minor trauma. Resting the jaw, eating soft foods, and avoiding wide jaw movements may help. However, if pain persists for over a few weeks, seeking professional care is important. Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening.
When should I see a specialist for TMJ treatment?
You should see a specialist if your symptoms persist despite home care, if your jaw locks, or if you’re experiencing significant pain or difficulty eating and speaking. A dentist trained in TMJ disorders can offer a more comprehensive evaluation. Early treatment helps prevent long-term damage. Don’t wait until the pain becomes severe—early intervention is key.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
To learn more about TMD or schedule a consultation, please contact us! You can also call Vista Ridge Family Dentistry at 512-866-9654.
