Are you bothered by facial pain? This could be the result of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or TMJ for short. This condition is a specific pain and discomfort problem involving the bones, muscles, and ligaments in and around the jaw and upper body area. It can negatively affect your daily life and your overall wellness, and if you are experiencing any of these symptoms related to the pain and pressure of TMJ, then it is most likely the source of your concern:
- Facial Pain
- Jaw Discomfort
- Difficulty Opening and Closing Your Mouth
- Jaw Clicking, Popping, or Grinding
- Headaches
- Ear Ache or Pain
- Ringing or Pressure in the Ears
- Shoulder and Neck Pain
If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms, it is important to contact Dr. Kelley Mingus immediately. Dr. Mingus is a well-respected oral and maxillofacial surgeon who has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ. He will perform a thorough examination to help determine the cause of your pain, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Understanding TMJ and Its Causes
The temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. This joint is located on either side of the head in front of the ears. It enables your jaw to move side to side as well as forward and back, allowing you to talk, eat, and express emotions comfortably.
TMJ disorder is a condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the joints and the surrounding jaw muscles. Though TMJ has been well-researched, the exact cause of this condition remains unknown. There are several factors that can be related to TMJ, such as:
Medical Conditions
Certain underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis or auto-immune-related disorders, can be associated with TMJ pain. A trauma to the jaw, such as an injury or broken jaw, as well as any surgical procedures on the jaw area area have been linked to the development of TMJ.
Dental Misalignment
Misaligned teeth or a dental malocclusion can also contribute to increase the pressure and strain on the jaw joint. This added pressure can damage the tissues in the TMJ, leading to increased pain and discomfort.
Stress and Anxiety
Psychological health factors can play an important role in TMJ disorder, sometimes exacerbating pain and discomfort experienced.
Jaw Trauma
Physical traumas, such as broken tooth, a jaw fracture, or a dislocated jaw, can be linked to TMJ development.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorder
Dr. Mingus may discuss certain options for treating TMJ symptoms once he performs a full examination. The treatment or intervention chosen will depend on the severity of the case and the specific elements involved, such as pain severity, underlying medical conditions, and the ability to tolerate certain interventions.
Treatment options can include a range of strategies such as: stress management techniques, therapeutic exercises, pain control measures, and the use of oral devices (e.g., bite splints). Other interventions could include medications such as muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, and stress management medications. In extreme cases, surgical procedures, such as jaw joint replacement, may be considered.
Reaching Out to Dr. Mingus
If you are affected by the symptoms of TMJ, you are not without hope. Reach out to Dr. Kelley Mingus and schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms, and to determine if they could be a result of TMJ. Following the examination, Dr. Mingus will discuss an appropriate plan of care tailored to your unique needs and goals, and work towards improving your overall quality of life.
