Many people think that poor oral hygiene is the only thing that can cause dental problems. There are also other issues like sleep apnea and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) that can cause severe oral issues. Temporomandibular joint disorder is not a condition to be ignored as it can deteriorate your oral health. This means you should be aware of the signs associated with the condition so that you can seek dental help immediately before the problem worsens. Apart from that, it is wise to know what causes the condition to implement methods that can prevent TMJ from developing. Here at Ortega Dental, our dentists are experienced and know how to diagnose TMJ. They will also provide you with the best treatment for the condition.
TMJ comes with various symptoms which can help you know if you are suffering from the condition. When you come to the dentist, we will check for those signs to know if you have TMJ. One important thing that your dentist will do is to see your jaw movement. If it is stiff, that could signify that you are suffering from TMJ. Other symptoms associated with the condition are headaches, neck pain, ear pain, teeth grinding, jaw pain and locking, difficulty opening your mouth and chewing. Once you have been diagnosed with TMJ, your dentist will recommend a follow-up to help treat the condition and ensure it does not lead to serious dental issues.
Temporomandibular joint disorder is usually caused by excessive teeth grinding. Since teeth grinding is the leading cause of TMJ, it can affect your teeth and jaw. Your teeth may fracture or break because of the constant pressure it receives from too much clenching. The problem is that this can happen without your knowledge because bruxism, or teeth grinding, typically occurs at night. When your teeth chip or fracture, they are exposed to oral bacteria, which can eventually cause decay and cavities. Apart from that, TMJ can lead to gum infections. According to professional dentists, when you clench your teeth, it creates tiny spaces along your gum line. This allows bacteria to easily get into your gum tissues and lead to periodontal disease. TMJ can also cause overbites and other dental deformities if not treated early.
It is always important to correct the damage that TMD has caused. Otherwise, it can lead to severe oral issues that may require expensive treatments. If you seek help early, several options can help save your tooth and prevent gum infection from progressing to your jawbone. For example, if your tooth has been damaged beyond repair, dental implants can help fix the problem. Also, night mouthguards can be used to prevent teeth grinding and ensure your gums heal effectively. Dental crowns and bridges are other effective solutions that can help if your teeth have been lost to TMJ. Do not hesitate to call our dentists at (904) 864-2222 at Ortega Dental to get help immediately.
