205.621.3100Have you ever heard of temporomandibular joints before? Temporomandibular joints, also frequently referred to as TMJs, consist of ball-and-socket joints in your jaw that are responsible for the movements of your mouth. Unfortunately, several underlying factors or oral health failures can damage them. If damage should occur to your TMJs, a TMJ disorder will be present. Luckily, there are several treatment options that can be used.
Several oral health risks can arise that can put you at an increased risk for a TMJ disorder. If for any reason you are constantly grinding or gnashing your teeth, whether unconsciously or while sleeping, you will be at an increased risk for a TMJ disorder, which condition is known as bruxism. Other underlying conditions in your mouth including dislocations or misalignments with your jaw and teeth have also been known to produce TMJ disorders. Bad habits such as continuously chewing gum or biting on your nails can even damage your jaw and cause of TMJ disorders to arise.
In order to effectively treat a TMJ disorder, you will first need to visit your dentist for comprehensive oral examinations. Although heat and ice packs for alleviating pain or lowering inflammation associated with a TMJ disorder can be helpful, better treatments will be required to treat the condition. By eating softer foods and practicing exercises designed to strengthen your jaw, you can help minimize the wear and tear on your jaw that may be produced by a TMJ disorder. For a professional appliance, visit your dentist to help alleviate pressure associated with TMJ disorder with a night guard or a bite plate.
Our team at Helena Family Dentistry looks forward to enhancing your smile with treatments for TMJ disorders. To book an appointment at our dental office in Helena, Alabama, please contact Dr. Stacey DeFranco and our team at 205-621-3100.
