TMJ And Other Jaw Disorders Make Your Life A Painful Nightmare, But There Is Help Available

People who grind their teeth sometimes develop a serious problem with their jaw. If untreated, your teeth, gums and bone structures of the mouth can be adversely affected.

One of the most common jaw disorders is TMJ (temporomandibular joint). The jaw joint connects your lower jaw to your skull. This allows your upper and lower jaw to open and close. It helps you chew and speak.

People with TMD joint disorders often hear a clicking and popping sound when opening and closing their mouths. TMD disorders cause frequent headaches, neck aches, and in some cases, tooth sensitivity.

Some treatments for TMD include muscle relaxants, aspirin, biofeedback, or wearing a small plastic appliance in the mouth during sleep.

Minor cases of TMD involve discomfort or pain in the jaw muscles. More serious conditions involve improperly aligned joints or dislocated jaws. The most extreme form of TMD involves an arthritic condition of the jaw joint.