A dentist may ask if you experience difficulty chewing, pain, or a "popping" sensation in your jaw when you open your mouth? You may be suffering from TMJ disorder, a condition caused by inflammation of the tissue around the area where your lower jawbone joins your skull. There are many possible causes for TMJ disorder, including whiplash, stress, arthritis, and clenching teeth.
TMJ disorder is diagnosed with X-rays and an examination of your jaw motion and flexibility. We will also look into your dental and health history to identify any risk factors.
The most common treatment for TMJ disorder is therapy to reduce the inflammation in the joint. This is done using heat or cold treatments, anti-inflammatory medication, stretches or massage. Treatments such as physiotherapy or surgical intervention may be used for more serious cases. Generally if the inflammation can be reduced, symptoms will diminish.
