Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD/TMJ) are common causes of orofacial pain that can significantly impact your life quality. Its symptoms can be complex, oftentimes causing more than just pain but also interruption to proper jaw function. Delving into the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for TMD/TMJ can equip you with the knowledge you need to understand this condition better and seek appropriate treatments. This article is designed to provide you with a deeper comprehension of TMD/TMJ, enabling you to make decisions about your condition and address it effectively.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders refer to a group of problems associated with the temporomandibular joint - the hinge-like complex that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. If this joint gets injured or damaged, it can lead to a localized pain disorder called TMD or TMJ syndrome. This condition can result from a direct injury to the jaw or joint, inflammation such as arthritis, or even muscle fatigue from constant clenching or grinding of teeth— a condition known as bruxism.
Moreover, TMD/TMJ shows no discrimination and can affect individuals of all ages, although it is often more prevalent in individuals between 20 to 40 years of age and shows an increased prevalence in females. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last for short periods or many years.
Symptoms often include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, pain while chewing, facial pain, and even locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.
Sometimes, a clicking or grating noise in the jaw joint may also be observed, although if there’s no pain or loss of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably don't need treatment for a TMJ disorder.
At Columbia TMJ and Pain, Dr. Bloxham’s primary goal is to diagnose and manage conditions like TMD/TMJ, helping patients find relief from the struggle of living with chronic orofacial pain. The treatment strategies can include medications, therapies, and in some cases, surgical interventions or other medical procedures.
As we delve deeper into the world of temporomandibular joint disorders, we hope to offer insights, shed light on misconceptions, and discuss various treatment options that can help those affected by this condition to have an improved quality of life.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD/TMJ) can cause significant discomfort and impact daily life, which is why understanding the condition and knowing available treatment options are critical. With the assistance of a qualified specialist like Dr. Bloxham at Columbia TMJ and Pain, you can navigate through various treatments and adopt the best approach to managing your TMD/TMJ effectively. Improved jaw function and pain relief can result from tailored, multidisciplinary interventions, granting you a better quality of life.
If you're struggling with chronic orofacial pain caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD/TMJ), seek help from a qualified myofascial doctor at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ. Take control of your condition and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment today.
1363 Columbia Park Trail, Suite 101,
Richland, WA 99352
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(509) 578-5774
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