TMJ Diagnosis and Treatment in Tampa, Fl

Are you experiencing jaw pain, popping or locking? You may have TMJ – a condition that affects the movement of the jaw. TMJ can cause many problems, ranging from mild discomfort to more severe pain.

If you’re suffering from TMJ in Tampa, FL, don’t wait – get treatment today at our clinic! Our experienced team in Lake Park Dental will work with you to find the best solution for your needs.

TMJ: What It Is And Causes

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint. This is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. TMJ can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Headaches
• Clicking or popping noises when you move your mouth
• Pain when chewing
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• A feeling like your jaw is "locked" in place

There are many possible causes of TMJ:

• Arthritis or other conditions that affect the joints
• Injury to the jaw or head
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Stressful lifestyle habits (such as clenching your teeth)
• Misaligned Teeth

Living With TMJ

If you have been diagnosed with TMJ, there are some things you can do to help ease your symptoms and make living with the condition easier. These include the following:

• Eat soft foods. Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew, such as soups, mashed potatoes, and bananas. Avoid hard foods, such as candy or nuts, which can aggravate your symptoms.
• Avoid chewing gum. Chewing gum can worsen TMJ symptoms, so it's best to avoid it altogether. If you must chew gum, choose a sugar-free variety.
• Practice stress relief. Stress can worsen TMJ symptoms, so it's important to find ways to relax and de-stress. This may involve yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Treatments For TMJ

TMJ can be diagnosed through a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your dentist will ask you about your symptoms and may examine your jaw joint for signs of tenderness or popping. They may also order X-rays or other imaging tests to get a better look at your jaw joint.

Once TMJ has been diagnosed, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may involve lifestyle changes, such as avoiding hard foods or gum chewing, or wearing a mouth guard at night. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

If you have been diagnosed with TMJ, your doctor may recommend wearing a mouth guard at night. This protects your teeth from grinding and clenching, which can worsen TMJ symptoms.

Mouth guards are available over the counter or from your dentist. If you wear a mouth guard, be sure to clean it regularly and replace it as needed.

Treat TMJ In Tampa, Fl

If you are living with TMJ in Tampa, FL, it's important to talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage your symptoms. With the right treatment plan, you can live a healthy and active life despite your condition.

Don't wait to get help. Contact a qualified doctor or dentist today to start the path to relief.