What is TMJ Disorder? The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the sliding hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull on either side of your face. It is the joint that allows you to use your jawbone to chew and speak properly. Because it plays such an important role, when it malfunctions, it can wreak havoc on your everyday life.Although TMJ disorder is hard to prevent (because the exact cause is unknown) it can be easily treated, non-invasively, with oral appliance therapy from South Shore Dental Care. Make your TMJ disorder consultation appointment with the trusted family dentists of South Shore Dental Care today. Drs. Dory and Khalida Stutman proudly serve patients daily throughout Massapequa, NY, Long Island, Merrick, Bellmore, Wantagh, and the surrounding communities.
What Does TMJ Disorder Look Like?
TMJ disorder can cause severe pain and discomfort in some cases. This pain could be temporary or last for many years. It could also affect one or both sides of your face. TMJ disorder is more common among women than men and it is most often discovered between the ages of 20 and 40. While the exact trigger of the disorder is still debated, clear warning signs include:
- Pain or tenderness in your face, neck, or shoulders
- Pain when you chew, speak, or open your mouth too wide
- Jaw joints that lock or make noises
- Trouble chewing properly
- Swelling on one side of the face
- Chronic toothaches, headaches, neck aches, or upper shoulder pain or
- Chronic earaches, hearing problems, or ringing in the ears
How Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated?
Dr. Stutman offers oral appliance therapy to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorder. A custom oral appliance (night guard) fits over your upper and lower teeth as you sleep. The appliance prevents your teeth from clenching so that your jaw joints and muscles can relax and release tension. The night guard can lessen the effects of teeth clenching and grinding and correct your bite position. When your jaw joints and surrounding muscles are no longer strained, your TMJ disorder symptoms will decrease and dissipate.
Massapequa TMJ Disorder Consultations
If you, or someone you love, is suffering from TMJ disorder symptoms, make an appointment for a TMJ disorder treatment consultation with the experienced family dentists of South Shore Dental Care today. South Shore Dental Care delivers quality therapy daily throughout Massapequa, NY, Long Island, Merrick, Bellmore, Wantagh, and the neighboring areas.
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