TMJ dysfunction is a surprisingly common problem that often goes undiagnosed for years in adult patients. This painful and disruptive disorder severely impacts patients’ lives. So what can our Elmhurst TMJ dentists do to alleviate the problems of TMJ dysfunction? Keep reading to find out more.
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. Because this joint has so much to do every day—it allows you to speak, eat, smile, etc—it is prone to becoming aggravated and inflamed.
When the TMJ is injured, the patient is prone to experiencing:
· Jaw pain and stiffness—this could exist on either side of the jaw, or both sides simultaneously
· Headaches—the facial and cranial pressure associated with TMJ dysfunction leads to tension headaches
· Dental grinding (leading to premature dental deterioration)
· Limited jaw mobility
· Facial swelling
· Popping noises in the jaw joint—if your jaw joint is coming out of its socket, you may actually be able to hear and feel this movement
It used to be that patients with TMJ disorder could only ice their jaws, take ameliorative painkillers, and hope that their TMJ problems somehow resolved themselves. In severe cases patients could undergo a surgery that attempted to reconfigure the temporomandibular joint.
Now, however, our Elmhurst TMJ dentist office provides TMJ treatment that is effective and comfortable. Using innovative nighttime dental appliances, we will help your jaw relax in optimal alignment. This treatment not only helps to minimize the symptoms of TMJ problems, it actually works to correct the root causes of these issues.
If you are experiencing TMJ problems, our Elmhurst TMJ dentists are here to help you find the lasting relief that you deserve. Contact our office to get the high-quality, innovative TMJ treatment that you deserve.