The jaw joint
is located just in front of each ear. It is a complex joint, and
has many muscles controlling it. Many people experience severe
pain in and around the joint for a number of reasons. The pain can
be sharp
right in the area of the joint, or it may feel like an earache. It may
be persistent, and often severe, headaches result. People with TMJ problems
may also experience muscles spasms in the neck, back or shoulders.
A bad
bite, or persistent grinding or clenching of teeth can cause TMJ. Grinding
and clenching seems to be related to stress. Correcting a poor
bite and reducing stress in our lives would be ideal options, however
we often need relief immediately.
Basically grinding, clenching and a bad bite
cause the muscles that control the jaw to be overworked, they get fatigued
and go into spasm. That is
when the pain begins. An appliance can be made to wear over the teeth
that will allow the muscles to rest and reduce the symptoms. Various
medications
can also help reduce the pain, as well as massage of the muscles, moist
heat, and even physical therapy can help.
If you experience any of the above
symptoms, it is not wise to ignore them, or attempt to cope with them
on your own. It can get worse, without warning,
and permanent damage to the joint can result, which may require surgery.
The best thing to do is call our dental office in Rocky Hill, Connecticut immediately to be evaluated and
get you on the road to recovery and relief.
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