Dentist in Syracuse Explains the Consequences of Ignoring TMJ Symptoms

Neck, shoulder, and jaw pain, frequent headaches, discomfort when chewing, and popping and clicking in the jaw are all common symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. This condition occurs when your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is not functioning correctly, and the symptoms can become very debilitating for some people. Your dentist in Syracuse explains how TMD is treated and the consequences of ignoring your condition.

TMD 101

Your jaw joint is one of the most complex joints in your body because it allows your jaw to move side to side, up and down, and backward and forward. When it’s not in proper alignment and functioning correctly, you might feel discomfort or experience problems like your jaw locking into place.

The causes of TMD are different for each person and determining the root cause ensures you receive the most effective treatment for your condition. Some causes of TMD may be:

• Stress or anxiety
• Bruxism – clenching or grinding your teeth
• Bite misalignment
• Trauma

Treating TMD and What Happens If You Don’t

Treatment for TMD depends on what’s causing your condition. For example, if bite misalignment is causing your concern, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to straighten your teeth and correct your bite.

Patients who suffer from bruxism might benefit from wearing a custom night guard over their teeth at night while they sleep since this is usually the time that bruxism occurs. Those experiencing TMD caused by stress or anxiety might use massage or meditation for stress management.

If the symptoms of TMD are left undiagnosed or ignored, they will progressively get worse. The muscles in your jaw can radiate pain to other areas of your body such as your neck or shoulders, and it can become increasingly worse as different muscles are forced to compensate.

Your jaw joint is close to your ears, so earaches or ear infections are often the results of a poorly functioning TMJ. You might also experience jaw pain that makes chewing and eating uncomfortable or painful.

The effects of TMD may cause you to take pain medications to manage your condition. You may also find that you have trouble sleeping or relaxing.

Contact Your Dentist

Don’t let the symptoms or discomfort of TMD control your life. Contact your dentist today to learn more about TMJ therapy in Syracuse.

About Creative Dental Concepts

Dr. Gregory Craybas and Dr. Donald Crumb combine their expertise to care for patients at Creative Dental Concepts in Syracuse, NY. Using advanced technology, they offer solutions for patients with TMD and other complex dental services you may not find at other practices.

If you would like to contact our dentists, they can be reached by calling (315) 475-6641 or online.