Does your jaw ache in the morning? Do you feel like it sticks when you try to talk or chew? These are just a few of the hallmarks that could indicate you have a problem with your TMJ in the Bronx, NY.
The good news is that TMJ disorder can be treated. However, it must first be diagnosed by a trained oral surgeon. If you are wavering between whether or not you should make an appointment to talk about TMJ troubles, start by asking yourself if you have any of the following TMJ disorder red flags.
- Jaw popping: When you open your mouth, do you ever feel a popping sensation in the jaw hinge? The sound may or may not be accompanied by a quick pain. Popping can indicate that your jaw is not moving correctly.
- Jaw discomfort: Plenty of people with TMJ disorder report feeling a low-grade amount of discomfort in the jaw throughout the day. Sometimes, the jaw may only hurt a little bit. At other times, it may throb.
- Jaw sticking: Have you ever been unable to close your jaw after yawning or during a conversation? The problem could be that the hinge is sliding incorrectly, making it a challenge for you to completely close your mouth.
- Tooth grinding: Tooth grinding, especially at night, frequently accompanies TMJ disorder. This is why so many patients from the Bronx, NY with TMJ issues develop cracks and cavities in their molars. The grinding wears down the enamel and puts undue force on the teeth.
- Radiating pain from the jaw: Not all physical sensations related to TMJ disorder happen in the jaw itself. TMJ disorder can lead to stiffness and discomfort in the neck, face, and shoulders, too.
How an Oral Surgeon Approaches Patient TMJ in the Bronx, NY
One of the most complex aspects of TMJ disorder is that it presents differently in every patient. Plus, the underlying cause of TMJ problems can vary from person to person. However, experienced oral surgeons have a few treatments to help patients with TMJ disorder find relief.
- Mouthguard Therapy: For many TMJ disorder patients, wearing a specially designed and customized mouthguard at night can remove most or all daytime symptoms of the condition.
- Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive surgery, arthrocentesis (sometimes called joint aspiration) aims to remove any excess fluid from the jaw joint. Sometimes, an oral surgeon will deliver medicines or other liquids into the jaw to improve movement and function, as well as reduce pain.
- Surgical Arthroscopy: When more traditional surgical measures make sense, TMJ disorder can be treated through the use of arthroscopy. Specialists in this procedure use high-end tools to repair the damaged jaw joint.
Enjoy Jaw Comfort With the Right TMJ Treatment
You do not have to live with the annoyance, inconvenience, and discomfort of TMJ disorder. If you have any TMJ disorder signs, contact our office in the Bronx, NY by calling (718) 752-7397. Our team of compassionate, experienced oral surgeons, including doctor, Marlon K. Moore, D.M.D, will be happy to evaluate your case and provide you with treatment recommendations.