Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) also known as Temporomandibular joint disorders are often mechanical problems of the lower jaw and the joint which connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint which is termed the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) by the dental profession is the hinge which allows the jaw to move while keeping it aligned with the skull. In many ways it is the most flexible joint in the body allowing movement both up or down and side to side. Without this flexibility we wouldn’t be able to perform important tasks such as communicate with each other or chew our foods properly. To benefit those who suffer these disorders dentists such as the TMJ Treatment Columbia TN to patients who need it.
Sadly, dentists don’t know the actual cause of TMD although many believe the symptoms occur from problems associated with the surrounding muscles and/or the joint itself. They do know however, that damage to the joint such as might occur from an accident or injury can be one cause. TMD has been associated with whiplash injuries or heavy blows to the head and neck. Other possible causes include excessive teeth grinding which puts undue stress on the joint, dislocation of the disc which acts as a cushion for the jawbone and emotional stress which causes the patient to clench their teeth or consistently over tighten the jaw muscles. A possible related issue for many TMD sufferers is the presence of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. While TMJ Treatment Columbia TN will help with these problems, the arthritis conditions may require the help of a medical doctor as it is not known if TMD causes the arthritis or the arthritis is simply aggravating the TMD problem.
There are many symptoms which may indicate the patient needs TMJ Treatment Columbia TN such as pain or tenderness in the lower jaw or joint, inability to open the jaw properly or difficulty chewing properly. Others include swelling around the lower jaw or TMJ, clicking or popping of the joint and the feeling that the jaw is stuck and won’t open properly. If these symptoms are bothering you, discuss TMJ Treatment Columbia TN with your dentist.
