I have always been an avid hockey player, and my love took a bad turn one day when I got struck in the mouth with the puck. It was a painful moment that left me with two teeth knocked out of my mouth. Had I taken the right steps after the accident, I could have possibly saved the teeth, but I did not know I had that option at the time. Thankfully, I worked up the courage to visit a dentist and ask what my options for teeth-replacement were. I was worried I would would have to live the rest of my life without smiling, but I was ecstatic to learn that I was the perfect candidate for dental implants. I created this blog to help others realize that there are so many options to replace missing teeth today that no one has to "just live with" an imperfect smile!
Your temporomandibular joint is the portion of your jaw that acts as a hinge, helping you open and close your mouth. The TMJ allows you to chew and speak. You may feel some stiffness and pain in this joint after chewing a particularly tough steak. However, people with TMJ disorders feel pain in their jaw joints constantly. This sensation is sometimes accompanied by a popping or clicking feeling. This disorder, colloquially known as just TMJ, can be treated by a dentist. Here are four common components to TMJ treatment:
1. Home Care
Your dentist will suggest some helpful things you can do at home to relieve the pain of your TMJ disorder. Eating easy-to-chew foods when you have a flare-up can reduce the severity of your pain. Chewing gum can also relieve the stiffness associated with TMJ disorders. Sugar-free gum is the best choice since it does not increase your risk of cavities. Your dentist may also suggest self-massage as a remedy for jaw pain. By rubbing your TMJ, you can relieve muscle soreness and joint stiffness without resorting to pain medication.
2. Medication
Certain medications can reduce the severity of TMJ disorder symptoms. Anxiolytic medication can help you stop clenching your jaw. Muscle relaxants may also help you find relief. Dentists are medical doctors who are able to write prescriptions for their patients. You may also be given painkillers to help you manage your discomfort. Make sure to tell your dentist about any medication you're currently taking in order to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
3. Doctor Referral
After evaluating your jaw, your dentist may suggest that you schedule an appointment with your regular doctor. Certain underlying conditions can cause TMJ disorders, such as arthritis. Your primary care physician is the best professional to diagnose conditions that pertain to your entire body. If it turns out you have arthritis or another systemic condition, treating that condition will help you find relief from your TMJ disorder.
4. Mouthguard
TMJ disorders can be caused or exacerbated by bruxism. Bruxism is another term for tooth grinding. If you grind your teeth at night, the tension created in your jaw can lead to pain during the day. Wearing a mouthguard while you sleep will curb bruxism. Your dentist can help you by making a custom mouthguard for you to wear while you sleep. A custom mouthguard will be more comfortable and effective than any mouthguard you can buy over the counter.
For more information, reach out to a company like Allure Dental.
Share23 November 2020
