Doctor near Daly City explains TMJ dysfunction
Many of the issues are caused by stress on structures surrounding the joints including the cartilage disk, muscles in the jaw, muscles in the face and neck, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, and teeth. Some of the potential causes of this condition include:
- Wearing braces, or untreated malocclusion
- The pressure of jaw clenching or tooth grinding
- Poor posture
- Lack of sleep
- Poor diet
- Stress
- Structural problems
- Dislocations
- Fractures
- Arthritis
- Jaw trauma
Symptoms
The signs or symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can be simple or complex and they vary greatly in their presentation. Pain in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is one of the most common symptoms; however, there is a range of other symptoms such as:
- Pain radiating in the face or neck
- Stiff jaw muscles
- Locking, or limited movement of the jaw
- Popping, clicking, or grating sounds when closing or opening the mouth
- Changes in the way the teeth in the upper and lower jaws come together
- Pain in front of the ear
- Headaches
- Facial pain
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or teeth
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness
- Occasional tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Pain or pressure behind the eyes
- Difficulty or pain when chewing
Diagnosis and treatment
An examination to confirm TMJ dysfunction will usually involve listening to and feeling of the jaw while the mouth is opened and closed, checking the jaw’s range of motion, identifying areas discomfort, and x-rays.
Treatment usually begins with simple therapies such as:
- Exercises to relax, stretch, or massage the muscles around the jaw
- Avoiding activities that can stress the jaw muscles such as chewing gum, singing, and yawning
- Heat packs or cold packs on the jaw
- Develop techniques to reduce stress
- Consuming softer foods for a few weeks
Dental appliances have been used successfully since the 1930s to treat many cases of TMJ dysfunction. Dr. Leo Arellano and his highly trained team relieve the discomfort of this condition for many people in Daly City and the surrounding areas. Call 415-881-4343 to schedule a consultation.
