A smile is one of the first things people notice about each other. Many individuals spend money and months or years to perfect their glamorous smile to show off to the world. But when teeth, jaw, or neck and back pain are present, a glowing smile is nowhere to be found. Pain caused by malocclusion can cause TMJ and result in a TMJ smile.
Let’s delve into what TMJ is, the causes of TMJ, how TMJ affects a smile, and treatments for TMJ.
What is TMJ?
TMJ, or temporomandibular joints, is also referred to as TMD, or temporomandibular disorder. In most cases, TMD stems from a condition called malocclusion, which means having a “bad bite.” Malocclusion includes underbites and overbites. When teeth are misaligned, they cannot support the muscles in the face need for chewing and swallowing. These muscles are then forced into a strained position, resulting in pain throughout the face, head, arms, shoulders, and back. Symptoms range from moderate to severe and include:
- Chronic facial, jaw, shoulder, and ear pain
- Headaches
- Neck aches
- Difficulty chewing
- Malocclusion
- Grating and popping noises
- Inflammation
Individuals can check for TMJ within their homes before seeking further examination from Dr. Buck. This self-examination checklist can save an individual a trip to the doctor’s office by looking into jaw, tongue, and ear symptoms and the patient’s previous injury history…
What Causes TMJ?
Typically, TMJ surfaces from malocclusion. Other causes of TMJ include:
- Impact injury of or near the jaw joint
- Arthritis
- Stress
- Teeth grinding
- Jaw clenching
- Poor posture
TMJ can significantly alter the appearance of a person’s face. For example, shifts in teeth or the jaw can cause muscles in the face and neck to tighten, preventing individuals from showcasing their pearly whites.
How Can TMJ Affect A Smile?
The temporomandibular joint is directly in charge of a person’s ability to smile. Pain or tightness related to TMJ can prevent an individual from smiling or even speaking with ease. Teeth grinding from TMJ disorders can wear down teeth and make a person leary of smiling. Additionally, TMJ may cause the jaw to shift, which can alter the way an individual smiles.
Easing TMJ symptoms depend on the severity of the type of TMJ and the TMJ diagnosis a person has. However, relief from TMJ pain and finding the road back to a charming smile is possible through proper treatment and continued follow-up care.
TMJ Smile Solutions
TMJ treatment requires the recommendations of a neuromuscular dental professional and a multi-faceted approach to account for the broad spectrum of symptoms possible. Dr. Buck of Balance Epigenetic Orthodontics specializes in TMJ and sleep apnea treatment making his office an excellent resource for those in need of relief. For more information on Dr. Buck’s practice and the treatment options he provides, please schedule an appointment or call us today at 206-316-8286.