Tag: TMJ

Oral Health: TMJ Disorders

Due to the oral health risks associated with TMJ disorders, it is important to assess what they are and how to treat them properly. A TMJ disorder, also known as a temporomandibular joint disorder, arises when the joints in your jaw are not working correctly. This is because they consist of different working parts including muscles and ligaments that work with your jaw bone. If for any reason they are damaged, your entire oral health could suffer.

Typical causes of TMJ are often linked to stress or excessive use of your jaw. This can arise due to continually chewing on pens or pencils, or biting your nails. Furthermore, if you’re suffering from an underlying condition such as bruxism, which means you are unconsciously grinding and clenching your teeth, your risk for a TMJ disorder is increased. Arthritis, dislocations, and misalignments with your teeth and jaw are also known risk factors for TMJ disorders.

Treating a TMJ disorder often depends on applying stress-relieving techniques and stretching exercises, Heat packs can assist with pain, and ice packs can help with inflammation. If a TMJ disorder does not get better, visit your dentist for an evaluation and treatment suggestions.
For more information concerning TMJ disorders or to schedule an appointment with our dentist and the rest of our team, please contact us at our dentist office in [city], [state], by calling [phone]. [practice_name] wants to help you take charge of your future with a healthy smile!

Lower Your Risk for TMJ Disorders

Do you ever feel like your oral health has let you down? Does your jaw constantly cause you pain beyond the point to which your mouth can function properly? The truth is that you may have a temporomandibular disorder, also called a TMJ.  Fortunately, you can lower your risk for TMJ disorders by protecting your mouth properly. However, due to the highly complex nature of TMJs, you could still suffer an ailment.

If you should suffer from a TMJ disorder, take the time to care for your jaw as best you can until a visit to your dentist can be made. Typically, your jaw will best function with the help of ice packs for inflammation and heat packs for pain. If your TMJ disorder is caused by another disorder such as bruxism, try using night guards and bite pads to help alleviate some pressure off of your jaw.

Meditation also helps alleviate pain associated with TMJ disorders. There are many forms to try using, including soothing music, soft biofeedback techniques, and yoga. If medication is necessary, be sure it has been approved by your dentist. Also try to cut back on habits that can cause your jaw more pain including eating hard foods, biting your nails, and chewing gum.

If you would like to set up an appointment to discuss your possible TMJ treatment with Dr. Michael Long or Dr. Matthew Thurman at [practice_name], please call [phone] to set up a visit to our dentist office in [city], [state]. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!