Of the thousands of people suffering from symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction, some require surgery. A big percentage of the group can experience an improvement in the symptoms even without aggressive medical management.
What do you know about temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)? Allow us to give you an overview so that you can become an active part of the medical management of your condition.
Where the TMJ and what are is it?
When you speak words and chew food, your mouth has to open and close. Certain muscles power these movements, and the temporomandibular joint allows movement through the available range. The temporomandibular joint can become dysfunctional. When there is a problem, you will start manifesting with symptoms, not the least of which is pain on the part of the face in front of the ear. This is where the pain starts to fan out, if it fans out because the joint it located right there. After a while, you will experience joint limitation, and if the condition progresses, the jaw might lock in the open position. It can be very disabling.
Who is at risk for TMJ dysfunction?
While thousands in America suffer from TMD, most of whom are not formally diagnosed, some people are at higher risk than others are. Those who have a greater chance of developing temporomandibular joint problems tend to grind their teeth while sleeping. If a person has alignment problems between the upper and lower teeth, he or she may develop TMJ problems due to mechanical stress.
If anyone in your family possesses these risk factors, it is best to see a professional like The Jaw Health Resource when his or her jaw hurts on the left side, and they feel discomfort when they speak or chew.
Only about five percent of those who have TMD sought medical help. You can prevent a worsening of symptoms if you avail of medical advice. Do not just wait for the pain and discomfort to be over. Be open to suggestions.