Compared to a sliding hinge, Temporomandibular Joints connect an individual’s jawbone to their skull, allowing for easy movement of the jaw when speaking and eating. Yet, when an individual begins to experience pain in their jaw joint, they may refer to their pain as TMJ pain, as they relate the cause of their pain to the joint itself. In truth, the pain that they are experiencing is medically classified as a TMD pain, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder pain. Even so, for those that suffer from TMD/TMJ pain, symptoms vary, as well as treatment.
The Mayo Clinic notes that the exact cause of a person’s TMJ/TMD pain is often difficult to determine, as many factors are involved. These include genetics, arthritis or an injury to the jaw. In turn, some cases of TMD occur when an individual grinds or clenches their teeth (Bruxism). Moreover, while some experience temporary bouts of TMD pain, others suffer for weeks or months.
Consider the following signs of TMJ/TMD:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw
- Pain directly in the joint of the jaw (on one or both sides)
- Earaches or pain around the ear
- Headaches
- Pain while chewing food
- Facial pain and aching
- Locking of the jaw joint, making it difficult to open and close the mouth
- Popping or a clicking sound in the jaw joint while chewing food or opening/closing the mouth
When it comes to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, there are at-home remedies that individuals can do to relieve their pain. Yet, when TMD pain become persistent, or when an individual cannot open or close their jaw completely, a trusted TMD dentist can provide invaluable insight into their pain.
Treatment For Jaw Pain – Manhattan
At Group Health Dental, we make it easy for New Yorkers to receive comprehensive dental care in one convenient location in the city. This includes treatment for TMJ/TMD related jaw pain.
If you are suffering from chronic jaw pain and any of the above-mentioned symptoms, give our Manhattan practice a call today!
