Are you or someone you know dealing with a painful popping noise when you open your jaw or chew food? This common issue may be a sign of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), and Dr. Kelley Mingus at Bend, Oregon has the solution you need.
Understanding TMJ and Its Symptoms
TMJ is a disorder that affects the muscles controlling the jaw. When these muscles are inflamed, it can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and the most common symptom: a popping noise when you open your mouth. Other symptoms may also include trouble chewing, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, stiffness in the jaw, or a clicking sound when you chew.
Many people with TMJ find that their symptoms come and go, with the most common cause of the disorder being grinding, clenching, or misalignment of the jaw. Stress, arthritis, and injury to the jaw muscles can also contribute to TMJ. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to seek help from Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend, Oregon.
Solutions from Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend
If you are concerned that your jaw popping sound is related to TMJ, the first step to finding relief is to contact Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend, Oregon. Dr. Mingus specializes in treating this disorder and can help you find the right treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.
There are many treatments available for TMJ, including over-the-counter pain medications, lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and physical therapy. Dr. Mingus can help you determine the best course of action for your individual needs, and if necessary, may recommend a splint or night guard to help keep your jaw aligned and prevent pain.
In addition to in-office treatments, there are also several at-home exercises that may help to relieve TMJ symptoms. Dr. Mingus and her team will work with you to develop a plan that fits your lifestyle, and can help guide you through the exercises to ensure you are doing them correctly.
Advice for Preventing TMJ
While there is no way to completely prevent TMJ, there are a few things you can do to help decrease your risk of developing the disorder. For starters, it is important to practice good oral hygiene to maintain healthy gums and teeth. You should also try to limit the amount of chewing gum you use, and avoid hard or chewy foods whenever possible.
If you are prone to stress or anxiety, take steps to manage your stress levels such as meditating, practicing yoga, exercising, or seeking counselling. Additionally, try to limit the amount of time you spend clenching or grinding your teeth, and ask your dentist about bite guards if you suspect you are grinding your teeth at night.
When to seek help from Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend, Oregon has the experience and expertise necessary to help you find relief from your symptoms and live a healthier, more comfortable life.
Contact Dr. Mingus today to schedule an appointment, as she can help diagnose your condition and work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. With the proper care, it is possible to find relief from the symptoms of TMJ and live a pain-free life.
