Temporomandibular joint syndrome or “TMJ” is a painful condition that affects as many as 10 million Americans. Read on to learn more about this common condition and how our Austin Cosmetic Dentistry specialists can help relieve your TMJ pain.
What is the temporomandibular joint?
The temporomandibular joint is a small ball and socket joint that anchors the jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull and is cushioned by a small disc. The temporomandibular joint is moved and stabilized by several muscles and ligaments.
The temporomandibular joint is what allows us to open and close our mouths and move the jaw from side to side so that we can do things like speak and chew.
What causes TMJ?
The complicated anatomy of the temporomandibular joint can make the root cause of TMJ difficult to pinpoint. Anything that puts stress on this delicate joint can cause TMJ to develop over time. The most common causes of TMJ related pain are:
- joint dislocation
- erosion of the temporomandibular joint disc
- misalignment of the teeth
- injury to the jaw
- grinding or clenching of the teeth
- arthritis
Through examination and reviewing your history, your dentists can help identify what’s causing your TMJ so you can find a solution.
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
The most common symptom of TMJ is pain. This may be one-sided or bi-lateral and may occur at the joint itself or radiate to the ear or even to the head and neck.
TMJ can also make the temporomandibular joint itself tender to the touch. TMJ sufferers may feel pain in the joint during movements such as chewing and speaking.
Some people with TMJ may experience limited range of motion of the temporomandibular joint. It may feel as though the joint “locks up” or that it’s difficult to chew or to open and close the mouth.
How can TMJ be relieved?
Our Cosmetic Dentist Downtown Austin TX can help uncover the cause of your TMJ and treat it so you can find relief.
Those whose TMJ is caused by misalignment of the teeth can often find relief with Invisalign Downtown Austin where our practice is located can fit you with Invisalign to straighten your smile and relieve your TMJ pain.
If your TMJ is the result of an injury or a condition like arthritis that’s damaged the joint, the best Cosmetic Dentist Downtown Austin TX is exactly where you can find treatment to cure TMJ pain.
Come visit Austin Cosmetic Dentistry at The Toothbar where you can relax in a spa-like atmosphere while getting the cutting edge treatment you need to relieve TMJ pain. We’re here to provide you with an individual solution. Whether your TMJ calls for some pampering stress-relief or teeth-straightening Invisalign Downtown Austin is the place to be and The Toothbar is where you’ll find everything you need.
Would you like to get more information, contact us at The Toothbar today.