normally help your jaw to move when you eat and speak. Sometimes, however, there can be dysfunction in how these joints work which often manifests as jaw pain and headaches. Our Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentists can help ease your discomfort with custom bite splints, home exercises, physical therapy, and more.
Learn about symptoms of the condition and when to seek out TMJ disorder treatment below.
How Common Is a TMJ Disorder?
It’s estimated that around 5-12% of the general adult population is experiencing some type of TMJ disorder (TMD). Most people develop TMD when they’re between the ages of 20 and 40 though the causes behind the condition can vary.
For example, excessive teeth grinding or clenching, jaw injuries, arthritis in the jaw joint, stress, and malocclusion can all be reasons for TMD to occur. Not every patient will have the same cause and it may be downright impossible to control all factors that lead to TMJ issues. Our dentists are here to help in some way no matter what is responsible.
Symptoms of a TMJ Disorder
As can the cause, can also vary widely. One person may experience a certain symptom more than another with the severity ranging as well. Our dentists will need to further investigate your specific situation to make a final assessment.
TMJ dysfunction may be to blame if you’re noticing:
- Jaw stiffness
- General jaw or facial pain
- Shoulder or neck pain
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Popping or clicking sounds when you move your jaw
- Headaches or migraines
- Toothaches
- Earaches
Show Your Jaw Some Love
You don’t deserve to be in pain. If our dentists serving Plantation and Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, believe TMJ disorder treatment in the form of custom oral appliances, medication, at-home exercises, and more, is in your best interest, we will make that recommendation. Call Barr Dental Group today at (954) 327-7400 to request an appointment.