Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, commonly known as TMD, is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the jaw and face. What sets TMD apart from periodic discomfort is that TMD is persistent and can last for weeks or months at a time. This can impact your daily life, making everyday tasks like chewing and speaking difficult. If your TMJ disorder persists for more than a few weeks or causes severe pain or discomfort, you should consult your dentist for medical treatment.
At Park Smiles NYC, we understand how debilitating TMJ disorders can be and are committed to providing personalized care for each patient. With years of experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ-related issues, our dedicated team uses the latest techniques to relieve pain and improve function. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or severe symptoms, we’re here to help you achieve long-lasting relief in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments. You have two TMJs, one on each side of the jaw in front of the ears. Their function is to connect the jawbone to the skull. The main purpose of the temporomandibular joints is to help with chewing and speaking. When TMJ issues arise, you might experience some of the following symptoms:
- Jaw pain
- Pain or stiffness in the neck and face
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Locking of the jaw
- Headaches
- Vertigo
Mild TMJ symptoms will often resolve independently after a week or two of at-home treatment. Some home remedies that might alleviate your pain and discomfort include:
- Eating soft foods
- Using ice to reduce swelling
- Resting the jaw as much as possible
- Reducing stress
However, more serious cases of TMJ disorder can persist for longer than a few days or weeks and may require medical intervention. It is essential you contact your dentist to discuss your TMJ symptoms and explore what options are best for you.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
TMJ disorder currently affects between 5% and 12% of the population and is twice as likely to affect women over men. While the main cause of TMJ disorder is unknown, a few contributing factors can play a role in developing this condition. These factors can include:
- Jaw injury
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Arthritis in the jaw
- Growth disorders
- Misalignment of the teeth
Some additional conditions can put you more at risk for developing TMD, including female hormones, poor posture, and prolonged tensing and stress. If your TMJ disorder persists for longer than a week or two or you are experiencing severe symptoms that disrupt your daily life, you should seek medical attention.
Talking to a knowledgeable dentist about your symptoms and health history can help determine the cause of your TMD and create a treatment plan that best addresses your needs.
How Can Park Smiles NYC Help Treat Your TMJ Disorder?
At Park Smiles NYC, we take pride in offering comprehensive solutions for TMJ disorders tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our experienced team is skilled in diagnosing the root cause of your discomfort, whether it is related to teeth grinding, stress, or another factor. With our patient-first approach, we strive to provide effective treatments that help alleviate pain and restore your quality of life.
From non-invasive therapies like customized mouthguards to more advanced options, we focus on finding the best possible solution for long-term relief. If you’re struggling with TMJ disorder symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek help. Call us today at (212) 988-6724 or schedule a consultation through our contact form.