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To put it simply, TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) occurs when your jaw is not working as it should. When your jaw becomes misaligned, or the joints become strained, it can cause pain not only in your jaw but in other parts of your body as well. Your temporomandibular joint is utilized in many daily activities, including eating, drinking, breathing, and speaking. In addition, your jaw muscles play a role in keeping your neck and head aligned. If you are seeking a dentist for TMJ disorder in the Charlottesville, Virginia area, reach out to Dr. Gregory R Cox and the team at Rugby Dental Arts.
While the exact source of your TMJ pain can be difficult to determine or attribute to just one thing, Dr. Bearley will work with you to create a suitable treatment plan. This may include exercises and stretches to perform at home, medication, or even surgery.
Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with TMJ disorder.
If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, it could be because one or both of your temporomandibular joints are strained.
Because your jaw is connected to your skull, if you are experiencing pain in the jaw caused by TMJ disorder, this same pain can radiate to the skull and lead to chronic headaches.
If your jaw is making clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you open your mouth, close your mouth, or chew, it could be due to TMJ disorder.
Many who suffer from TMJ disorder report trouble chewing and feeling like their bite is not aligned, leading to an uncomfortable sensation, as if their upper and lower arches are no longer fitting together properly.
These are just a few of the many symptoms which could lead your dentist to look at the possibility of TMJ disorder.
It is important to remember that any time you are having chronic pain or discomfort, you should reach out to a medical professional for diagnosis. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bearley, please call (434) 443-8034.