Temporomandibular joint, also known as TMJ, is the soft cartilage that connects your jawbone to your skull. They are found at each side of your jaw. The main function of TMJ is to keep the movement of your lower jaw smooth. This allows you to do usual tasks like talking, eating and swallowing food without any problem.
However, in some instances, the TMJ can be really problematic when it becomes dysfunctional. Temporomandibular dysfunction occurs when the jaw muscles and ligaments around the joint stop working in harmony. When this happens, you can experience jaw pain and frequent headaches. At Smile Family Dentistry, we can evaluate and treat TMJ disorders with a high level of success. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, get your jaw joints checked today.
There are an estimated 11.2 to 12.4 million American adults who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorders. Most research shows that TMD is a lot more common among women than men. They are at a higher risk of getting TMD than men, as data shows that for every one man with TMD, there are nine women who have the disorder. Research shows that women also tend to have symptoms more severe than men.
Your age is one of the main factors that affect your risk of getting TMD. Although you can get diagnosed with TMD at any age, older people have more chances of getting it. TMJ degeneration is also associated with the patient's age.
Data shows that individuals between the ages of 20 to 40 are most likely to get TMD. This does not mean that people in this age group will develop TMD, they are just more prone to getting it. Even children and teenagers, especially girls, can be affected by this joint disorder.
TMJ disorders are caused by an imbalance in the joints. Teeth grinding or bruxism can increase your chances of developing TMJ. Bruxism is a condition in which you clench and grind your teeth. If you have this condition, then your jaw is more likely to develop a jaw dysfunction. The stress from prolonged teeth grinding can wear down your teeth and this can lead to misalignment of the jaw. The pain from TMD can also cause you to grind your teeth more to alleviate it, making the disorder worse.
TMD can be cured. TMD is not irreversible and it can be treated. In fact, there are many treatments for TMD out there, ranging from surgical to non surgical. There are also ways you can ease the pain the disorder can cause. The treatment can differ from person to person. Our professionals will take a look at your case first before you undergo any treatment.
Temporomandibular joint disorders can be painful. Fortunately, there is a way to treat them. If you are experiencing any problems with your TMJ, our team at Smile Family Dentistry can help you. For more information, you may contact us at 925-825-1130.