|
The jaw joint is located just in front of each ear. It is a complex
joint, and has many muscles controlling it. Many people experience
severe pain in and around the joint for a number of reasons. The
pain can be sharp right in the area of the joint, or it may feel
like an earache. It may be persistent, and often severe, headaches
result. People with TMJ problems may also experience muscles spasms
in the neck, back or shoulders.
A bad bite, or persistent grinding
or clenching of teeth can cause TMJ. Grinding and clenching seems
to be related to stress. Correcting
a poor bite and reducing stress in our lives would be ideal options,
however we often need relief immediately.
Basically grinding, clenching
and a bad bite cause the muscles that control the jaw to be overworked,
they get fatigued and go into spasm.
That is when the pain begins. An appliance can be made to wear
over the teeth that will allow the muscles to rest and reduce
the symptoms.
Various medications can also help reduce the pain, as well as massage
of the muscles, moist heat, and even physical therapy can help.
If
you experience any of the above symptoms, it is not wise to ignore
them, or attempt to cope with them on your own. It can get
worse,
without warning, and permanent damage to the joint can result,
which may require surgery. The best thing to do is call our office
immediately
to be evaluated and get you on the road to recovery and relief.
Back to education
|
