How Poor Alignment Can Cause TMJ

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TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that can cause excruciating pain in the jawbone. The pain is also commonly known to spread throughout the head area, causing headaches, and to the neck, shoulder and back area, causing localized pain. For anyone experiencing TMJ in Solon, OH, and other areas, the pain and discomfort can be more than pain. It can disrupt daily life, causing a person to have lowered quality of life. Many people are unaware that alignment issues, treatable with orthodontics, can actually cause or contribute to the development of TMJ.

How Alignment Relates to TMJ

The temporomandibular joint is the one located at the “hinge” of the jaw. This hinge connects the jaw to the rest of the head, or the skull. When teeth and jaw structures are misaligned, it forces the TMJ to work harder to perform basic functions, like chewing and speaking, which can lead to strain and irritation over time. This misalignment can come from various causes, including bite issues like overbites, underbites or crossbites, as well as other structural anomalies that push the jaw out of its natural position.

What Happens When There is Poor Alignment

When the bite is not aligned correctly, stress is placed on the temporomandibular joint. The bite, for anyone who does not fully understand, is the way the upper and lower teeth come together when a person chews, bites or vocalizes (speaking or singing, etc.) Now, imagine if you have two separate things coming together—the upper and lower teeth—but one is coming in at an angle, or off-center. That’s a misalignment in the bite.

When the jaw doesn’t close properly or is forced to move in ways that are unnatural, the muscles may become overworked, leading to inflammation and soreness. This persistent strain can cause the muscles around the TMJ to tighten and spasm, which then creates a ripple effect, causing headaches, neck pain, and even back pain as the body tries to compensate for the misalignment. Over time, this cycle of muscle strain and joint irritation can lead to chronic TMJ pain and dysfunction.

Orthodontic treatment in Solon, OH often resolves TMJ. To learn more about how poor alignment and TMJ can be corrected with orthodontics, contact McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics today.

How Shifting Teeth Can Create TMJ Disorder

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As a person ages, they may experience shifting teeth. This is somewhat caused by changes in the bone structure in the jaw. Older people may be more susceptible to bone loss, or they may experience it as a side effect to certain commonly-used prescription medications. Another reason for shifting teeth is gum disease, which could be brought on by neglecting to visit a dentist on a regular basis over a long period of time. For whatever the reason, your orthodontist in Solon, OH wants you to know that, while shifting teeth are a problem unto themselves, they can also play a large part in the development of TMJ disorder. This is where a person may have even worse problems that can affect every aspect of their quality of life.

Understanding TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jaw to the skull, causing pain, discomfort, and difficulty moving the jaw. It can result from several factors, including injury, arthritis, and jaw misalignment. One lesser-known contributor to TMJ disorder is shifting teeth, which can gradually alter the balance and function of the jaw.

How Shifting Teeth Affects Jaw Alignment

As teeth move over time, whether due to aging, orthodontic relapse, or tooth loss, the alignment of the upper and lower teeth can change. Proper alignment is essential for maintaining a healthy bite and ensuring that the jaw closes in a balanced way. When teeth shift, they can create an uneven bite, placing extra strain on the jaw muscles and the TMJ. This added pressure can lead to discomfort and eventually contribute to TMJ disorder.

The Role of Missing Teeth in TMJ Development

Missing teeth can accelerate the shifting of remaining teeth. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, neighboring teeth may drift into the empty space, disrupting the natural alignment of the bite. This uneven bite can put stress on the TMJ as the jaw struggles to compensate for the missing tooth. Over time, this can result in pain and other TMJ symptoms, such as clicking or locking of the jaw, which no one wants to hear as you’re talking or eating, including you!

If you have the signs of TMJ disorder in Solon, OH, or you’ve noticed that your teeth have begun to shift, please contact McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics right away to learn about effective treatment options.

4 Causes of TMJ

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TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a painful condition affecting the joints and muscles of the jaw. Your orthodontist in Solon, OH, has treatment options for TMJ, so booking an appointment is a smart idea. If you’re curious about why you may have developed TMJ, to begin with, here are X common causes of TMJ.

1. Injury to the Jaw Joint

One of the most common reasons for TMJ is injury or trauma to the jaw joint. Injuries commonly cited include motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and falls. The trauma from such injuries can damage or inflame the joint structure, leading to TMJ.

2. Teeth Grinding

Another leading cause of TMJ is the grinding of teeth, called bruxism. Bruxism may happen at night, during sleep, and the person may be unaware that they’re even doing it. Your orthodontist can offer special oral appliances that can be worn while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding.

3. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are a daily part of people’s lives, unfortunately. However, these two stressors can lead to conscious or unconscious jaw clenching for some. The emotional stress is transformed into physical stress on the jaw joint, leading to TMJ.

4. Underlying Disorders

Certain underlying disorders, such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also affect the temporomandibular joint, leading to TMJ symptoms. Arthritis causes inflammation and degeneration of the joint tissues, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced jaw mobility. A combination of certain orthodontic treatments and physician treatments can alleviate the pain and inflammation, helping to quell the symptoms of TMJ.

TMJ is a painful condition, but you don’t have to suffer quietly with it. There are many treatments available for TMJ in Solon, OH. Contact us today to book an appointment for a consultation, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Is Osteoarthritis Causing Your TMJ?

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Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of joint disease, which is why it can be linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. If you’re experiencing both of these conditions, we’ll look at how one can cause the other.

What Is the Connection Between OA and TMJ?

OA affects not only the joints but also the cartilage that surrounds the joint. Because the cartilage protects the bones in the joint, it causes stiffness and pain in the jaw. Other symptoms can include pain in the face, difficulty biting, locked jaws, and clicking sounds when you open and close your mouth.

How Is TMJ Treated?

There are a number of treatments for TMJ in Shaker Heights, OH, regardless of its original cause:

  • Mouthguards: The more you use your jaw, the more wear and tear you’ll put on your joints. Mouthguards and night guards can limit clenching or grinding of the jaw, which many people may do without even realizing it. This puts less pressure on your entire mouth, which can have residual benefits on your oral health.
  • Home remedies: Ice packs, Tylenol, and physical exercises can help you control inflammation if you have TMJ and strengthen the muscles that surround your jaw. If you have osteoarthritis, it’s important to keep your body as active as possible to reduce pain and stiffness.
  • Surgery: In the worst-case scenario, an orthodontist in Shaker Heights, OH, might recommend surgery to replace the cartilage.

Find an Orthodontist in Shaker Heights

If you’re having trouble managing your TMJ, whether it’s an annoyance or so painful that it keeps you up at night, seeing an orthodontist in Shaker Heights, OH, can make a difference. To find out more about the best treatments for you, make an appointment today.

 

Can TMJ Correct Itself?

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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located on either side of the jaw and connects the jaw to the skull. If you have TMJ disorder in Solon, OH, it’s because either the joint or one of its surrounding supporters has been damaged. From the disk that absorbs the shock to the cartilage that cushions the movements, TMJ is a somewhat common condition that can result in pain around in the joint as well as the muscles. If you’re wondering whether it can be corrected without professional help, we’ll look at what you can expect.

The Underlying Condition

If your TMJ is caused by overuse or mild trauma to the face, it may be resolved without you having to visit a doctor. The standard advice is to give your jaw a break, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and wear a mouthguard at night to avoid clenching your teeth. The more you can reduce the inflammation, the faster the pain is likely to go away. At McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics, we advise you to avoid hard or chewy foods to help your TMJ rest and recuperate.

When to See a Dentist in Solon, OH, About TMJ

We would recommend seeing a dentist in Solon, OH if your symptoms don’t improve after a few months or if the pain fluctuates enough to give you cause for concern. If your pain is caused by a condition like arthritis or the actual joint, you may need professional help to either correct it or manage the symptoms.

There’s no reason to run to a dentist every time you have a problem with your jaw, but there’s also no reason to delay treatment if it can help. With locations in Solon and Shaker Heights, McGuire Orthodontics, and Facial Orthopedics, we’re here to help you work it through step by step.

doctor showing temporomandibular joint

Innovative Solutions for TMD

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TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a painful condition that affects the “hinge” on either side of your jaw. This hinge, the temporomandibular joint, allows you to open and close your mouth at will. It’s this joint that attaches your lower jawbone to your skull. Because it’s something you use constantly throughout the day, disorders that affect the TMJ take priority. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in the area of your TMJ, your orthodontist in Solon, OH, has solutions.

Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Your orthodontist may recommend one of several treatment options once you’ve been diagnosed with TMD. Usually, these include:

  • Resting your jaw
  • Taking medications such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxers
  • Wearing an occlusional appliance, such as a mouth guard or oral splint
  • Physical therapy
  • Counseling to help you cease bad habits, such as teeth grinding or nail-biting
  • Surgery

Mild TMD may clear up on its own with rest and simple lifestyle changes. However, there may be times when more serious intervention, such as surgery, is required.

Lifestyle Changes to Improve TMD

Adopting a soft-food diet is a more modern solution to easing the pain and discomfort of TMD. Because the least-invasive method of treatment is usually the preferred option, your orthodontist may recommend eliminating certain foods from your diet. These may include:

  • Hard cheese or fruit chunks
  • Nuts, seeds, raw celery
  • Fruits with skin, such as grapes
  • Hard cookies
  • Carrots

Your orthodontist may also give you exercises to perform at home to help ease the symptoms of TMD. Exercises that strengthen or stretch the jaw may be helpful. Exercises that improve posture may be beneficial as well.

Help for TMD in Solon, OH

Even if you’re interested in working at home to improve the function of your temporomandibular joint, it’s still vital to seek professional help first. TMD treatment in Solon, OH begins with professional intervention, and it’s your orthodontist who has the solutions you need to ease pain and restore function.

For more information, call McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics to schedule a consultation today.

Odd and Often-Missed Signs of TMJ

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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the primary joint that connects the skull and jawbone. TMJ disorder diagnosis with cone beam computed tomography in Shaker Heights, OH is common, but some patients are surprised by the diagnosis. The fact is, TMJ symptoms can be a little out-of-the-ordinary. Take a look at a few often-missed symptoms of TMJ to discuss with your dentist.

Vertigo or Feeling Dizzy

The ears are near the TMJ, which means inflammation of the TMJ can generate issues with the ears. The inflammation may disrupt the sensitive nerves in your ears that feed balance and spatial information to the brain. Unfortunately, this can lead to you experiencing vertigo, dizziness, or general imbalance when you move. Because vertigo and dizziness can be attributed to so many different issues, TMJ disorder is commonly overlooked as a culprit by standard medical providers.

Pain in Your Ears

Ear pain may make you suspect that you have an ear infection or even water or fluid in your ear. However, if you have TMJ disorder, your jaw joints could be to blame for pain in your ears. As the undue pressure caused by inflammation of the joint affects the nerves in the ear, the issue can also cause feelings of pain or pressure.

Tired Face

People with TMJ disorders often report their jaws pop frequently, or, sometimes, food may seem difficult to chew. Making certain expressions could even cause facial discomfort. When the TMJ is weak or inflamed, muscles that surround the jaws and face try to pick up the slack. This can lead to you feeling like your face is actually fatigued or sore.

Find Out More About TMJ Treatment in Shaker Heights, OH

TMJ disorders can cause a litany of uncomfortable symptoms, but treatment can be effective with a Shaker Heights TMJ dentist. Reach out to the team at McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics to schedule an evaluation if you suspect TMJ symptoms.

Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

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It’s hard to find relief when your whole face hurts. At least, it may feel this way if you have problems with your temporomandibular joint. Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, affects the small “hinges” that attach your lower jawbone to your skull. This joint makes it possible for your mouth to open and close at will. You use it when you speak, bite, chew, and drink, which is why life can become complicated when there’s a problem. Fortunately, your orthodontist in Solon, OH, has a variety of treatment solutions for TMD.

Prescription Medications

Several classes of drugs may be instrumental in easing the pain and discomfort of TMD. They include:

  • Anti-Inflammatory pain relievers
  • Muscle relaxers
  • Antedepressants

Your orthodontist will begin with the least invasive method to help you manage the symptoms of TMD. If these aren’t working, they may move onto specific therapies.

Oral Therapy

Physical therapy sessions that exercise your jaw and help strengthen your TMJ are often helpful. So are occlusional appliances, such as mouth guards or oral splints that you wear over your teeth. Other types of therapy that help you break damaging habits such as clenching or grinding your teeth may also be beneficial.

Injections

Sometimes, corticosteroid injections can bring relief from the pain of TMD. Your orthodontist may also use a needle to inject fluid into the joint in an effort to wash away any irritating debris. Injections of BOTOX may also help relieve pain.

Surgery

If none of these options are enough to ease the pain and discomfort of temporomandibular joint disorder, your orthodontist may recommend surgery to reposition the mandible or replace the joint. Regardless, your surgeon will sit down with you first to discuss your upcoming procedure and to answer any questions you may have.

Help for TMD in Solon, OH

If you’re experiencing pain or problems with temperomandibular joint disorder in Solon, OH, McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics has solutions. Call today to schedule a convenient time to come in for a consultation.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350945

Technology

 

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

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Are you experiencing dental problems but don’t know what’s causing them? If so, your dentist in Shaker Heights, OH can help. Frequently, when you have dental issues that seem to come out of nowhere, those dental problems result from TMJ. But what is TMJ and what are its symptoms and causes?

Let’s take a look.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular. The TMJ joint is what connects your lower jaw to your skull. TMJ causes pain in your jaw joint and the muscles that control your jaw movement. It also affects the nerves that are associated with chronic facial pain.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

Here are some of the symptoms associated with TMJ.

  • Pain in one or both of your temporomandibular (TMJ) joints.
  • Pain and tenderness in your jaw.
  • Ear aching or pain around your ear.
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Pain while chewing.
  • Aching facial pain.
  • Difficulty opening or closing your mouth.

TMJ problems can also result in your hearing a clicking sound or experiencing a grating sensation when you open and close your mouth or when you chew.

What Causes TMJ?

TMJ can occur when the bone that interacts with your jaw joint and disk begins to erode or moves out of alignment. TMJ could also be caused by joint cartilage that is damaged by arthritis or by joint cartilage that is damaged by a facial injury or other impact.

What Are the Risk Factors of TMJ?

People between the ages of 20 and 40 are most at risk of experiencing TMJ and it’s more prevalent in women. Other risk factors include all stress-related habits such as clenching and unclenching of the jaw, lip biting, nail-biting, teeth grinding during the day, teeth grinding during the night while you are sleeping, chewing on items such as hard candy or gum for an extended period of time.

There are certain health problems that also raise the risk of TMJ. Those include fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psychological issues like stress, unaligned teeth, an improper bite, and face or jaw deformities.

What’s Next?

If you need a dentist in Shaker Heights, OH, please Contact McGuire Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics today. We treat every patient as a part of our family and will give you all the customized care and respect you deserve.