A disorder of the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is probably the most common finding when a patient is observed for disorders of the mouth. These occur for several reasons. Jaw clenching or teeth grinding can cause pain in the mastication and articulation muscles. Dysfunction can also be caused by trauma or disease of the joints. Seeing an emergency dentist in Providence RIi may help you repair this issue.
Creaking when opening, or even when closing the mouth, is the sign most frequently encountered when there are disorders of the masticatory joint. This happens when there is a disturbance between the oral discs and the head of the jaw. In the vast majority of cases, clenching is rarely painful. However, pain can arise in a patient with very severe joint dysfunction.
Pain and stiffness of jaw muscles can often be the result of parafunction, that is to say, clamping teeth and bruxism. These are often caused by psychological stress. Dental tightening and bruxism are the result of unnecessary and excessive contraction of the jaw muscles. This causes muscle fatigue accompanied by pain and stiffness. Premature tooth wear is often seen and the use of a bite splint can prevent this.
Other possible causes for the development of joint disorders:
* Sports Injury
* Car crash
* Ankylosis condyles (fusion of bones of the joint)
* Malocclusions
* Abnormality in the shape of the mandible or maxilla
* Hypermobility of the jaw
* Abnormal position of the articular disc
Here are some symptoms that may indicate a dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint:
* Grinding or clenching teeth during day or night
* Stiffness in the jaw in the morning
* Frequent headaches
* Joint pain increased by stress
* Pain while opening the mouth
* Difficulty opening the mouth
* Locking teeth in a position different from a normal position
* Pain during eating
* Sensitive or loose teeth
Treatments
Several treatments are available for jaw problems. The treatment varies depending on the individual and diagnostics. The treatment plan usually includes a multidisciplinary approach with care by an Emergency Dentist in Providence RI and others by the patient at home. Initially, dentists try to eliminate muscle spasms and joint pain. For more information, contact your local dentist.
