As the holiday season approaches, the Thanksgiving feast is anticipated. Between friends, family, and football, the holiday is a great time to kick back and relax. But with jaw pain from TMJ, your mouth will not have a moment to rest between bites of turkey and pie. TMJ is a condition where a misalignment may impair jaw function. This can cause painful symptoms. This pain makes eating Thanksgiving food difficult and can put a damper on the festivities.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, the joint that is responsible for oral movement. The disorder of the temporomandibular joint includes issues that impact the jaw, neck, and nerves in the area. If the jaw does not sit at the proper position, your bite may be misaligned which can lead to pain.
What Are The Symptoms?
A telltale sign of TMJ disorder is having trouble with opening and closing your mouth. When moving the joint, you may hear popping or clicking. Headaches or neck pain may also occur. The jaw pain associated with this condition is caused by the stressful pressure on the jaw joint itself.
TMJ Disorder Can:
- Can cause chronic pain
- Lead to joint locking and muscle spasms, which are common
- Cause pain in the ear, jaw, face or mouth
What Causes It?
The cause of the disorder is a misaligned bite. This painful alignment can happen for multiple reasons, including:
- Uneven teeth from natural causes
- Dental procedures gone wrong
- Injury
- Hormones
- Stress
How Is It Treated?
Treatment may vary depending on the severity of the issue and the origins of the misalignment. Dr. Wolfe will inspect your bite to see the causes and appropriate approach. He will customize a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatments include wearing a mouth guard or receiving a bite adjustment. To learn more about the disorder and the options for TMJ treatment in Rochester Hills, MI, contact Dr. Wolfe online or call (248) 651-0897 to schedule an appointment.
