Did you know that over ten million people experience the uncomfortable symptoms of TMJ disorder? Also known as TMD, the disorder can make eating and even speaking difficult, affecting how your mouth opens and closes. Fortunately, treatment is available with a simple oral splint. Do you need a TMJ nightguard?
Treating TMJ Disorder Quiz
- True or False: Jaw joint tension can lead to TMD.
- True or False: Symptoms may include popping or clicking in the jaw.
- True or False: The disorder can often lead to bruxism.
- True or False: We can treat TMJ disorder with a nightguard.
Answer Key
- True. Our temporomandibular joints connect the jaw and skull. Without them eating and speaking would be impossible. When these joints undergo excessive amounts of stress then a patient may develop TMD. Possible causes of stress may include trauma to the face or jaw, tooth loss, malocclusion, or chronic teeth grinding (bruxism).
- True. Patients may notice a clicking or popping sensation in their jaws. In addition, persistent headaches, earaches, facial and jaw pain, and neck and shoulder pain may develop. Don’t ignore any sudden or long lasting pain in your mouth or face. You should talk to a dentist today.
- True. In addition to being a potential cause, bruxism can also develop as a result of TMJ disorder. Bruxism refers to the grinding of the jaw or clenching of the jaw on a routine basis. Over time the disorder can cause tooth sensitivity, toothaches, and even lead to damaged teeth.
- True. The oral splint places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which prevents further damage as a result of grinding. Oral splints can also ease tension on the jaw joints, treating a possible cause of your TMD.
ABOUT YOUR LAKE ORION, MI, DENTIST:
At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, Dr. Brad Greenfield works to improve patients’ wellbeing, as well as their oral health, and he is proud to offer holistic, 100% metal-free dentistry. To learn more, or to schedule a dental appointment, call our office in Lake Orion, MI, today at 248-693-6213. We proudly welcome patients and families from around Lake Orion, MI, as well as Auburn Hills, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, Oxford, all surrounding communities.
