Understanding TMJ Syndrome and its Symptoms
TMJ—or the “temporomandibular joint”—is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. Problems within parts of the jaw muscles or jaw joint itself can cause TMJ Disorder, or “TMD.”
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your jaw, neck or back, or have chronic headaches or migraines, you may be suffering from TMD. Toothaches, earaches, tenderness around your jaw joint area, limited ability to widely open your mouth, discomfort when chewing food and a popping sound upon opening are all chronic symptoms as well.
If any of these symptoms are familiar to you, we can recommend specific at-home care practices to help, and also offer a variety of TMJ treatment options to ease your discomfort.
A few known factors that can contribute to TMD include:
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
This is the most common contributing factor to TMD, and can cause a loss in tooth structure or receding gums, among other complications. Clenching of the teeth is another common cause of TMD.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Varied Trauma
Varied trauma – such as trauma to the head or jaw – can be a contributing factor to TMJ
Occlusal Adjustment: Misalignment of Teeth and Adjusting Your Bite
If you are experiencing TMJ discomfort, and are inclined to believe that your teeth do not line up properly, you may need an occlusal adjustment—a TMJ treatment option aimed at aligning your teeth in the correct position to allow for proper contact upon closing.
During your examination, the doctor will have you bite down on a very thin piece of mylar paper. Wherever contact occurs from your bite, color from the paper will transfer onto the tooth surface and allow for your doctor to gain an understanding as to where interferences are. After this examination, the doctor will remove just enough of the tooth surface or restoration that is eliminating contact, restoring the alignment of your teeth.
Learn more about teeth grinding and TMJ treatment options in San Francisco, CA by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Justin Shek, Dr. Clement Shek, Dr. Lynne Wong and Dr. Jade Tran today!