Central HK dentist explains, what is TMJ?
Patients who struggle with a clicking jaw, worn teeth, and pain in the head or upper part of the body may be suffering from a condition called TMD. This stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, a condition that occurs when the jaw joint (known as the TMJ) becomes irritated or compromised. When this occurs, the TMJ can result in pain and discomfort.
What is TMJ? TMJ is the actual joint that causes TMD. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and is the joint that holds the upper and lower jawbones. It is used to open and close the mouth. When inflamed or irritated, it can be extremely troublesome.
Patients with TMJ disorder will often experience symptoms that affect their upper body and head, which may include:
- Headaches
- Radiating jaw and facial pain
- Clicking or locking of the jaw
- Loose teeth
- Worn and damaged teeth
- Discomfort when chewing or speaking
- A drastic change in dental bite
- Earaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
When these symptoms are occurring, a physician may check to see if a patient has TMJ/TMD. This condition can be treated to relieve a patient of pain and discomfort and is typically done by a patient’s dentist. Dr. Titania Tong of Central HK offers TMJ/TMD treatments using oral appliances.
Oral appliance therapy is highly effective in keeping the jaw in place and protecting the teeth from damage while reducing or eliminating the symptoms associated with the TMJ. This appliance is worn at night, or even during the day, to protect the teeth, and keep patients from experiencing the discomfort of TMD.
Patients who have been diagnosed with TMJ/TMD are encouraged to seek assistance from their dentist. Treatment can reduce the problems and keep the teeth healthy and intact, which not only reduces pain for patients but allows them to maintain good oral health.
The smile is the first thing people notice about each other. Make sure that your first impression is a positive one, with the help of Dr. Titania Tong of Central HK.
