What Is TMJ, TMD, And How To Cure?

We all have heard about this condition and it is stated by some of the best Orthodontists Portland and around the globe as the muscles and ligaments that we use to move our mouth are connected with our temporomandibular joints or better known as  TMJ. 

This is known to be the point of contact where your skull and lower jaw bone coincide. Temporomandibular disorders are mainly associated with a lot of body conditions such as arthritis, dislocation, injury, or infection in your TMJ and it can cause a painful sensation that can sometimes lead to locking in your jaw, and headaches, neck pain, and creating a buzzing sound in your ears. 

As far as it is observed by Portland early Orthodontics treatment, many individuals’ TMD symptoms do not last for a longer period of time but some of them are quite prone and as a result of this others may experience pain and discomfort while moving their facial muscles. It is basically chronic and will last for a long and it can be made worse by clenching, chewing, swallowing or grinding teeth which is a habit relevant to many patients who face this disorder.

Causes, Signs and Symptoms of TMJ-TMD

The center for TMJ-TMD treatment Portland has suggested the causes that promote TMJ disorders in humans:

1. Injury to the teeth or jaw caused by a mishap or fatal accident.

2. Misalignment or malocclusions in the teeth and inside portion of jaw.

3. Teeth grinding which can be habitual.

4. Poor or bad posture of the body.

5. Stress, including mental and physical both.

6. Arthritis, it is a disease related to bones usually weakening the joints.

7. Chewing gums is also a factor that promotes TMJ issues.

Risk Factors Related to TMJ-TMD

There are several risk factors that come along with the TMJ-TMD syndrome and they are illustrated by the best Orthodontist in Portland to help you acknowledge the need of orthodontics treatment in such cases. These factors include:

• Poor body posture in the neck and upper back muscles may lead to a strain in the neck, further leading to abnormalities of jaw muscle function.
• Stress is a great factor to increase your muscle tension and jaw grinding.
• Patients with a history of other inflammatory arthritis have an increased risk of getting affected by serious TMJ issues.
• Most people who are exposed to jaw trauma or badly positioned teeth have an increased risk.
• People who have genetic defects, such as sensitivity to pain and increased stress responses may be more susceptible to TMJ-TMD.

How To Treat The Condition?

There are several ways and remedies that have been developed over the years in the field of dental science so as to provide the best possible treatment for individuals who are diagnosed with TMJ-TMD syndrome. Some of them are quite affordable, as TMJ-TMD treatment in Portland has been quite cheap for the patients in and around the area. 

Some popular remedies to treat the condition include :

1. Maintain The Resting Position of Your Jaw:

In order to help remove TMJ-TMD pain effectively, you must minimize wide jaw movements such as activities like chewing, yawning, singing, and yelling should be kept with less strain so that there isn’t much stress on the jaws. Doing your best to hold your muscles in a relaxing position can also help with it.

2. Exercises Related to Jaw: 

Jaw exercises can help you in major ways by increasing the movement of your joints. There are basically three types of jaw exercises that can be used together to get relief from the TMJ-TMD pain :

• Stretch exercises.
• Strengthening exercises.
• Relaxation exercises.

3. Avoiding Some Activities: 

A lot of activities and foods can cause discomfort or pain while opening your mouth. It can be then done either forcefully or you have to move your jaw in an abrupt manner. To avoid such complications, always take a note of the following activities :

• You must avoid yawning or yelling.
• Keep in mind to avoid Crunchy and hard foods.
• Make sure to avoid foods that require long-term chewing.
• Try to keep a distance from Chewing gum.

Bottom Line: 

Studies and research have revealed that sitting in a poor position for hours can cause you to feel more pain in the jaw. While you are working in your office or at home, make sure to choose a chair with back support and it is suggested to take frequent breaks to improve your posture. While driving you need to set your seat to be as upright as possible and always choose a space that allows you to sit straight and place a pillow behind your back for further support. With proper care and routine, you can avoid such dental issues and enjoy a healthy lifestyle for years to come.