Patients who experience frequent or persistent jaw pain or other types of facial pain should be evaluated to determine whether a temporomandibular (TMJ) joint disorder could be causing this symptom. When the jaw is not functioning properly, pain can result, so it’s important to be assessed and pursue any treatment options that can relieve your symptoms. A prosthodontist is capable of evaluating your case and recommending an appropriate and effective treatment.
Causes And Symptoms Of TMJ Disorder
The human jaw is comprised of many components, including bone, muscle, ligaments and tendons, all of which facilitate the jaw’s movement in multiple planes. Unfortunately, when even one of these components falters, a patient can experience a number of symptoms of TMJ disorder, including pain in the jaw, face, neck or ear, along with clicking or popping noises during chewing. The jaw may also lock in place periodically.
Because any of the jaw’s numerous structures can contribute to a TMJ disorder, it’s important to know what the specific issues are in your case, so that you can get effective treatment.
Consulting With A TMJ Specialist For Treatment
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms that can be associated with a TMJ disorder, you should consult with a dental specialist who treats many TMJ cases, such as a prosthodontist.
The provider will assess your case by examining your jaw as well as taking x-rays to look at the jaw’s interior structures that could be functioning incorrectly or damaged. The results of that assessment will then point to the most effective treatment option. Don’t be concerned that you’ll need to undergo a complicated or time-consuming treatment in order to get relief from your TMJ symptoms, either. Many TMJ specialists will be likely to explore conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or wearing a bite splint, before pursuing more complex interventions that may involve surgery.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, it’s entirely possible that a TMJ disorder is the underlying cause of this issue. Call Dakota Prosthodontics and Implant Center to schedule an evaluation to identify the cause of your symptom and explore your treatment options.
