Headaches are incredibly frustrating. They can be caused by a variety of issues and we often do not know what’s behind the pain at any given moment. Because of this, we are often left just treating the symptoms rather than the root cause. One of these potential causes, especially if you suffer from consistent pain, is TMJ Disorder — also known as TMD. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder is caused by a misalignment of the jaw joints that connect the lower jaw to your skull. These joints can become unbalanced for myriad reasons and cause a misalignment of your bite. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist discusses everything you need to know about TMJ Disorder.
What Are The Symptoms?
TMJ Disorder symptoms are often associated with other issues, so you could be suffering from it without even knowing. Headaches, jaw aches, and earaches are all signs of misalignment. Additionally, difficulty chewing and persistent jaw popping are indicators. TMJ disorder is also closely related to teeth grinding — or bruxism. If you have been suffering from any of these symptoms and haven’t found the root cause, you could very well be suffering from jaw misalignment. If you do suffer from any of these symptoms, reach out to your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible.
Why Is It So Painful?
It often hurts so severely because the joints affected by TMJ Disorder are surrounded by a vast network of nerves. What’s more, is that these specific joints are responsible for facilitating talking and eating — two actions that you’re doing almost all the time. Because of this, your misaligned jaw is always moving, causing even more pain. Moreover, the pain can extend to other places, including your shoulders, lower back, and teeth.
Your Dentist Can Help You Find Relief
If you suffer from any of the symptoms discussed above, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to undergo treatment. A common fix for TMD is a custom-made oral appliance that you can wear at night. It relieves pressure on the affected joints, providing you pain alleviation. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your jaw and mouth to determine the best course of action, given your specific needs. This could also include TruDenta®, which combines digital imaging, comprehensive diagnosis, and assorted treatment options to target the underlying cause of your disorder. Whatever is causing you your pain, your dentist can help you solve it.
Contact Us To Learn More About TMJ Disorder Relief
If you suffer from headaches and are not sure why do not hesitate to reach out to us today. Schedule an appointment and contact your Houston, TX, dentist, Dr. Vlachakis, by calling 281-974-4494. You can also visit Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry at 820 Gessner Rd., Suite #1560 Houston, TX 77024. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
