What is TMJ Syndrome

 

TMJ syndrome is short for Temporomandibular joint syndrome but is also known as TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder. The name is derived from the joint that connects your skull to your jaw known as the temporomandibular joint. TMJ Syndrome occurs when this joint sustains damage or becomes injured. Typical causes for TMJ Syndrome are injuries to jaw or teeth, arthritis, misalignment, or teeth grinding. Other contributors include stress or anxiety, poor posture, excessive gum chewing, and some sleep disorders including sleep apnea. While TMD may occur at any age, it is most common in women who are between the ages of 20 – 40. Omni Dental is conveniently located in Carter Lake and Council Bluffs to help you better understand TMJ Syndrome and your overall dental health. Visit TMJ Syndrome for more information.

There are a number of symptoms that occur in your ear, jaw, face, head, and neck that may be signs that you are suffering from TMD/TMJ syndrome.

Ear symptoms include:

  • Hearing a popping sound
  • Pain in your ears
  • Ears feeling tender
  • Hearing a ringing

Jaw symptoms include:

  • Jaw joint pain
  • Jaw clicking
  • A sore or stiff jaw
  • Difficult to close and open your mouth
  • Chewing produces a crunching or grinding noise
  • Yawning produces an irregular sound

Face, Head & Neck Symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Pain around the temples
  • Frequent migraines
  • Aches and pain around the shoulders and neck
  • Pain in the face
  • Face swelling

Visit Omni Dental and our trained professionals will provide you with a thorough initial assessment. It is essential to identify the cause of your pain. Treatment can range from habitual changes such as halting leaning on your chin, chewing your fingernails, or clenching your teeth, or something more extensive based on your individual case. We provide individualized care for TMJ Syndrome, which may also include: bite appliance/splint therapy, physical therapy, joint and muscle assessment, or an assessment of your nutritional needs. Check out our new TMJ dedicated website, http://tmj.omnidentalcentre.com/ for a detailed list of how our skilled professionals can help you.

Omni Dental provides TMJ Syndrome treatment and quality care for your overall dental health. We invite our Carter Lake, Council Bluffs, and Omaha residents to contact us for more information today!