TMJ Disorder (Temporomandibular Joint) is a condition where the joints, muscles, and teeth are misaligned and/or stressed. This can lead to pain in the joint itself, facial muscles, or teeth. There are many contributing factors that may cause TMJ disorder, such as a misaligned bite, tooth grinding or clenching, osteoarthritis or trauma and injury. Although not life threatening, if TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can contribute to significant discomfort and tension. Chronic pain can even lead to the development of diseases like anxiety and depression.
At Robert Rosenfeld, DDS in Solana Beach, we genuinely care about the health of our patients and Dr. Rosenfeld takes each case very seriously. Along with his team, he’ll develop a treatment plan that fits your individual needs. If you’ve been wondering about treatment options for TMJ disorder or have been experiencing jaw pain, you can call our offices today.
Why You Shouldn’t Leave TMJ Disorder Untreated
TMJ disorder can interfere greatly in the lives of those who suffer from it. Constant headaches, neck tension, tooth grinding and other symptoms of the disorder can really take a toll on the health of an individual. Sleep is commonly interrupted from tooth grinding and clenching; this can lead to long term issues such as sleep apnea, insomnia, nightmares, and imbalanced cortisol rhythms. Research also shows that sleep disturbance can play a large role in depression and anxiety because it interferes with the body’s natural hormonal responses.
As you can see, TMJ disorder may be related to long-term effects that have a profound impact on general health and wellness. Your dentist may also express concern over a premature wearing down of teeth and gums caused by grinding and clenching. Lastly, some people with this disorder experience inner ear issues such a ringing (tinnitus), balance problems or vertigo. It’s safe to say that untreated TMJ disorder has many unwanted consequences.
Suspect You Might have TMJ Disorder?
If you’ve been experiencing jaw, neck or facial pain, you might be suffering from TMJ disorder. It’s a good idea to make an appointment as soon as possible to discuss this with your dentist, If you’re ready to schedule a consultation or appointment, you can call our Solana Beach offices today at 858-755-1189 or click here for more information on our services.