What is TMJ Dysfunction?
Muscle spasm goes hand-in-hand with displaced jaw joints. Because
the nerves and muscles are so complex in this area, when these muscles
are in spasm the problems can be far-reaching. People suffer from
symptoms they would never think to associate with their bite, such as:
Headaches
Pain behind the eyes
Dizziness
Earaches or ringing of the ears
Clenching or grinding of the teeth
neck, shoulder, or back pain
Numbness, or tingling of the fingers
The primary problem can be in the joints themselves, the muscles of the
face and jaw, or a combination of these. Because the symptoms masquerade
as so many other conditions, many people travel from doctor to doctor in
search of a cure. It is estimated that as many as 44 million Americans
suffer from one or more of these symptoms. Many never think to seek
a dentist for help.
What causes TMJ Dysfunction?
The structures that make it possible to open and close your mouth include
bones, joints, and muscles. These are very specialized and must work
together whenever you chew, speak, or swallow. Your teeth are inserted
in your jaw bone. At the other end of your jaw bone are the temporomandibular
joints. These joints attach your jaw to your skull. Muscles
attach both the bones and the joints and allow them to move. Any
problem which prevents the complex system of muscles, bones, and joints
from working together in harmony may result in TMJ Dysfunction.
Treatment for TMJ Dysfunction
Since the teeth, jaw joints, and muscles can all be involved, treatment
for this condition varies. Typically, treatment will involve several
phases. The first goal is to relieve the muscle spasm and pain.
Then, your dentist must correct the way the teeth fit together. Often
a temporary device (known as an orthotic, or "splint") is worn over the
teeth until the bite is stabilized. Permanent correction may involve
selective re-shaping of the teeth, building crowns on the teeth, orthodontics,
or a permanent appliance to lay over the teeth. Ultimately, your
dentist will stabilize your bite so that the teeth, muscles, and joints
all work together without strain.
For further information or questions, please fill out our Need More
Information form or contact:
240 Farms Village Road West
Simsbury, Connecticut 06092
Telephone: (860) 651-3541
office@valleydentalsimsbury.com
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