TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, are characterized as a group of conditions that can cause extreme pain, discomfort and dysfunction in the jaw, its joint and the muscles that control its movement. Pain can be minor or fleeting, or it can severely restrict your ability to live a normal life. While some cases of TMJ can and do resolve themselves, if you have moderate to severe TMJ, you are better off seeking treatment from a dentist. Here’s why.
TMJ disorder can be caused by a variety of factors, either individually or compounded. If the issue stems for something that cannot and will not resolve itself, such as problems with the joint, you will deal with the problem perpetually until you act.
If you are dealing with TMJ, chances are you have scoured the internet for information on what you can do at home to help your condition. Many of the most common suggestions include eating soft foods, avoiding wide yawning, singing, and chewing gum, apply ice packs regularly or even practice stress reduction. While using these coping techniques is wonderful for people in the short term, living this way is not really living. Moreover, your condition could actually get worse by applying some of these techniques. Why risk it?
TMJ can be an indicator that further problems exist and need to be considered. One of the three main causes of TMJ is arthritis, a degenerative joint disorder that can wreak havoc on the body if not addressed. Learning the true causes of your conditions gives you valuable information that could affect your entire body and well-being. If you avoid seeking treatment, you could rob yourself of the opportunity to truly address your health problems, which may lead them to get worse.
There is nothing wrong with seeking treatment and you won’t know what options are available unless you try. Contact us today at Waterside Dental to schedule your TMJ appointment in Port Charlotte, FL at the Promenades.