For TMJ Treatment Atlanta Is Worth Visiting

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By Peter Schmidt


The temporomandibular joint refers to the joint that links the jawbone to the skull. Injury or damage to this joint results in a localized pain disorder referred to as temporomandibular joint syndrome. This article will discuss the main causes and treatment as well various facts about this medical condition. Before that, when in need of the best dentists with specialty in TMJ treatment Atlanta should be a place to give first consideration.

The nerves and muscles of the jaws are the ones affected by temporomandibular joint syndrome. This causes pain as one clicks, chews, popes or crackles the jaws. Patients also report having bruxism, painful tempos, Eustachian tube dysfunction, headaches, and nerve inflammation. There is also the possibility of discoloration of the temporomandibular joint in some cases. Temporomandibular joint disorder, shortened as TMD is the other name used to refer to this medical problem. There are certain common triggers for the pain, and applying pressure to the tempo and cold are common ones.

Symptoms differ in people. Some common symptoms are dislocation of jaws, blurred vision, shoulder pain, muscle spasms, and painful tongue. Pain felt in the tongue usually occurs at the base of the tongue. Symptoms may continue to change as one continues to heal or as the problem gets worse. Symptoms may also come and go without giving any warning.

It is not completely understood what causes TMD. Muscle dysfunction and tightness that this condition is characterized by can be caused by multiple factors. Enough evidence does not exist to prove if some of these factors lead to the condition or if they result from the condition. Some of the common causes include misalignment of the jaws, trauma to the jaws, teeth grinding, poor posture, and stress.

This medical condition is also associated with several different risk factors. For example, the jaws and neck are strained if one maintains poor head posture for too long, something that causes TMJ syndrome. People who are excessively stressed up experience jaw clenching and muscle tension in the jaws. Women at the age of 18 to 44 are also at a higher risk of developing the problem. Chronic inflammatory arthritis predisposes patients to the development of the problem. Lastly, misalignment in the jaws can lead to the development of the problem.

There is a wide range of treatment options available for treating this condition. Medications can be prescribed for relieving associated pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers are the most commonly prescribed medications. Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal non-inflammatory medications are the ones prescribed for patients. Tricyclic antidepressants are prescribed to relieve pain if necessary too. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relax muscles.

In cases where traditional methods do not relieve the pain, surgical methods may be opted for. Open-joint surgery is usually an option in cases where the cause of the problem is structural. The surgery is done to repair or replace the damaged joint to resolve the problem.

It is worthwhile knowing that the risks associated with open-joint surgery are much higher than those in other options of treatment. One should have a comprehensive discussion with their doctor regarding the pros and cons of the surgery. All factors must also be considered since not everyone is a suitable candidate for the procedure.




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