While you may or may not know what the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is, sufferers of TMJ problems know the symptoms all too well: wrenching tension in the jaw; muscle soreness; frequent headaches; and pain ranging through the jaw joints, cheeks, face, head, neck, and shoulders. All of it stems from one thing – problems with the temporomandibular (jaw) joint, better known as TMJ disorder or TMD. TMJ problems can be incredibly painful and cause a range of symptoms throughout the body, but take heart: there is help.

A Multitude of Symptoms

Part of what makes TMJ disorders so difficult is its sheer complexity – the jaw joint is the most complicated joint in the body, and tension in the tiny muscles, ligaments, and nerves that run through and around it can travel to distant parts of the body. The nerves and muscles that run through the jaw connect to areas all over the head, neck, shoulders, and even the lower back, so when tension does arise, the problems that come from it can seem almost disproportionately severe and widespread.

Thankfully, there are treatments available. Most TMJ disorders are the result of a malocclusion, or improper bite, so in some cases orthodontic treatment is the best bet for relief. We can also use a non-invasive occlusal splint to relieve tension and reduce symptoms, or in other cases, we can use neuromuscular dental procedures to restore even tension to your back bite and take care of the problem at its source.

Contact Your Elkhart Dentist Today

Whatever your condition requires, there’s no need to keep suffering – take action today. Feel free to call us at (574) 262-9619 or reach out to us at our contact page with any questions or to schedule an appointment at our Elkhart, IN office, and don’t forget to check back to this blog for more tips and info on maintaining optimal oral health. We can’t wait to hear from you, and we look forward to helping you reclaim a healthy – and pain-free – smile!