TMJ Disorder : Mystery Behind Jaw Pain
What does the temporomandibular joint do?
The temporomandibular joint, also known as TMJ Hayward Wisconsin, is a complex joint that enables both horizontal and vertical movements. Situated at the base of the skull, it connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone on the side of the skull. This joint plays a crucial role in facilitating chewing and talking. Due to its multidirectional range of motion, the TMJ is considered one of the most intricate joints in the body, which can pose challenges when treating severe TMJ disorders.
What are TMJ disorders?
TMJ disorders encompass a range of conditions that specifically affect the temporomandibular joint. These disorders can manifest with various symptoms, leading to varying levels of discomfort. With a wide array of potential causes, treatment options for TMJ disorders are diverse. Physicians may diagnose these disorders based on symptoms such as persistent jaw pain and limited jaw mobility. While most cases of TMJ disorders resolve within a few months, some cases may persist or recur.
What causes TMJ disorders?
TMJ disorders can arise from numerous factors.
TMJ disorders can be caused by various factors such as grinding the teeth during sleep, physical injury, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, dental surgery, and infections. Other potential causes may be genetic, hormonal, or environmental. For instance, violinists, due to the strain caused by holding an instrument under the jaw, have a higher likelihood of experiencing TMJ disorders compared to the general population.
Research has shown that women are more prone to TMJ disorders than men, prompting scientists to investigate the potential hormonal causes. Specifically, they are exploring the connection between the female hormone estrogen and TMJ disorders in the hopes of gaining valuable insights.
Symptoms
Symptoms associated with TMJ disorders include pain, which is most noticeable when moving the jaw. In addition to jaw pain, individuals may also experience headaches or migraines, neck or backaches, and earaches that radiate to the cheeks. If the pain extends beyond the jaw area, doctors will typically consider other symptoms before diagnosing a TMJ Hayward Wisconsin.
The act of eating, talking, or even just opening the mouth can produce various sounds such as popping, clicking, or grinding. It is important to note that these noises are not always indicative of TMJ disorders, as they are quite common. However, if these sounds are accompanied by pain or restricted movement of the jaw, seeking medical advice may be necessary. TMJ disorders can also manifest in symptoms such as buzzing, ringing, or numbness in the ears, which may be accompanied by earaches. Moreover, limited movement of the jaw or the inability to fully open the mouth can result in significant discomfort in daily activities.