TMJ is the temporomandibular joint in your jaw, which is responsible for opening and closing your mouth. It is also the term used to describe a condition affecting the same joint. When you start experiencing issues with your jaw, you must seek treatment for TMJ immediately before more severe symptoms arise.

Causes of TMJ

There are many ways people can develop TMJ. Some of the most common include:

Genetics

Improper dental surgery

Autoimmune diseases

Arthritis

Physical injury in the jaw

Constant clenching or grinding of teeth

TMJ affects some occupations more than others. For example, violinists typically experience a higher TMJ rate than the rest of the population because they have to constantly hold the violin directly below their jaw, which creates pressure. Therefore, women appear to be at higher risk of developing TMJ than men.

Necessity of Treatment

TMJ is not a life-threatening illness, but it can dramatically and negatively influence overall quality of life. The most obvious symptom is pain around the jaw, which can manifest as migraines, earaches, backaches, and neck aches.

Another common symptom is the peculiar noises that are produced while talking, eating, or opening your mouth. Normally, the noise sounds like scratching, clicking, or even popping. If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, you need to see our dentist for treatment immediately.

The Help You Need

Dr. Jig Patel has multiple treatment options available to treat TMJ. These include palliative therapy, exercise rehabilitation, occlusal modification, and occlusal therapy. Even if you only believe that you have a jaw condition, one way or the other, you can get a firm answer by calling our Schaumburg, IL office to schedule an appointment

.