The Risks of Untreated TMJ Disorders in Mays Landing & Somers Point, NJ
Why You Should Treat Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms. When left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to severe consequences. Explore the risks of untreated TMJ disorders and why seeking TMJ treatment is crucial for your overall health.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, evidence-based treatments are essential for managing TMJ disorders effectively, highlighting the importance of specialized care and research-backed approaches.
If you’re looking for TMJ treatment in Mays Landing & Somers Point, NJ, contact our dentist today by calling our Mays Landing office at (609) 625-3499 or our Somers Point office at (609) 927-8448.
Seven Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore TMJ Risks
Chronic Jaw Pain
One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorders is chronic jaw pain. Chronic pain, including facial pain, can make it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep. When left untreated, the pain can become more severe and chronic, making it harder to manage and live a high-quality life. This pain can affect your daily activities, such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping.
Joint Damage
The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of movement. During dental examinations, it is crucial to check the jaw joints to diagnose any potential issues. When something goes wrong with this joint, it can cause long-lasting damage to the joint itself. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to joint damage, making it difficult or impossible to open your mouth.
Tooth Loss
TMJ disorders can cause excessive wear and tear on the teeth, leading to tooth loss over time. This is because the jaw joint and surrounding structures are responsible for guiding the movement of the teeth during chewing and speaking. Dental splints or night guards fit over the upper and lower teeth to prevent clenching and grinding, thereby reducing wear and tear. Our skilled dentist in New Jersey can provide personalized treatments for your TMD-related dental problems.
Sleep Apnea
TMJ disorders can also lead to sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This occurs because the disorder can affect the muscles that control jaw movement, leading to pain, stiffness, and disruptions in the airway, which result in snoring and other breathing problems. A TMJ disorder and sleep apnea can play off each other, resulting in a cycle of worsened symptoms.
Mental Health Issues
Chronic jaw pain and discomfort can take a toll on your mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. Chronic jaw pain can also lead to tension in the jaw muscles, contributing to mental health issues. TMJ disorders can also cause stress and difficulty concentrating, making it harder to manage daily tasks. Take control of your physical and mental health by seeking treatment for TMD with Dr. John Nosti.
Recurring Migraines
TMJ disorders can cause recurring migraines, which can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities. Issues with jaw movement can lead to these migraines, as they affect both the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and the muscles that control jaw movement. Treating the underlying TMJ disorder can help reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches.
Tinnitus
TMJ disorders can cause ringing or buzzing in the ears, known as tinnitus. Jaw locking can be a symptom of TMJ disorders, contributing to tinnitus. This can be a frustrating and distracting symptom, and treating the underlying TMJ disorder can help reduce the severity of tinnitus.
‘‘As healthcare providers, we need to fine-tune our nutritional skills so we can personally guide our patients to better health.
- Dr. John Nosti
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Do TMJ Disorders get progressively worse?
In some cases, temporomandibular joint dysfunction can get progressively worse if left untreated. This is because the underlying causes of the disorder, such as arthritis or jaw misalignment, can worsen over time. It’s critical to seek treatment for TMJ disorders to prevent the condition from becoming more severe.
-
Can TMJ cause long-term damage?
Yes. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause long-term damage to the jaw joint and surrounding structures. This can lead to chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and other complications. It’s essential to seek treatment for TMD pain before it worsens. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate muscle pain and swelling associated with TMJ disorders.
-
When does TMJ pain become serious?
TMJ disorders become serious when the TMJ symptoms interfere with your daily activities, such as eating or speaking. Seek medical attention if the pain or other symptoms associated with the disorder become severe or unbearable. Your dentist can create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs.
-
When does TMJ pain require surgery?
In most cases, TMJ disorders can be treated with conservative measures, such as lifestyle changes, dental appliances, or medication. Physical therapy, including manual therapy techniques, can also be an effective conservative treatment option to maintain, improve, or restore movement and function. Surgery is typically recommended only for severe cases of TMD that have not responded to other treatments. Your dentist or doctor can determine whether surgery is necessary based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder.
Don’t Let Jaw Pain Take a Toll on Your Health Any Longer
Do you have an untreated TMJ disorder? Seek the treatment you need to avoid developing further problems. Contact our Mays Landing & Somers Point, NJ dental office today to schedule an appointment. Get started by calling our Mays Landing office at (609) 625-3499 or our Somers Point office at (609) 927-8448.