Signs of TMJ Disorder

Our Keller TX dentist has seen many patients that suffer from Temporomandibular Disorder, also known as TMJ. Many people do not even realize they have the disorder, but it is more common than one might think.

Research has shown the TMJ disorder is more likely to occur in women than men. This condition causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and in the muscles that control the movement of the jaw.

There are many different symptoms related to TMJ. It is important to be aware if you have any of these symptoms and schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel. TMJ disorder can result in pain when chewing, radiating pain in the face jaw or neck, pain from opening and closing the mouth, jaw muscle stiffness, Painful clicking and popping when opening the mouth, and a change in the way your upper and lower teeth align.

So, how do you relieve discomfort resulting from TMJ?

There are a few things you can try to help relieve the pain cause by TMJ. Often times the pain will go away on its own, but if it doesn’t, try eating soft foods for a little while. This will help to avoid over working the jaw muscles. You can even try to place an icepack on the jaw.

It is also best to avoid yawning or opening your mouth really wide. If none of these help, you can try doing jaw exercises by gently stretching your jaw. These are not guaranteed to work, so if you try these but the pain consists, you should call Esthetique Dental.  

Dr. Patel can give you suggestions on how to ease pain caused from TMJ. For more information or to find out if you have TMJ, call 817-741-1240 to schedule an appointment.