IS TMJ A MEDICAL OR DENTAL ISSUE?
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are often characterized by pain and popping in the jaw. Eventually, the condition can lead to more severe symptoms, including headaches, difficulties with mouth usage (speaking and eating), and others.
As with any other condition, sufferers from TMJ need to determine the exact cause of the issue in order to take the right course of action. Those looking into the disorder may feel confused by the fact that TMJ treatments are offered at both medical and dental offices. They may wonder whether the condition itself is considered a medical or dental issue in nature.
Categorizing TMJ Disorders
Once the cause of the disorder is determined, a patient’s case of TMJ can be classified as either a medical or dental problem. For example, TMJ can result from medical issues such as fibromyalgia, which can cause pain in various areas of the body (including the jaw). Arthritis is another condition that can lead to the development of TMJ.
That said, TMJ can just as easily be caused by dental issues, particularly when the catalyst is a problem stemming from the patient’s teeth. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can also be a potential cause of the condition. When carrying out a consultation, dentists perform an assessment of the teeth to look for signs of teeth grinding, such as cracks in the enamel. The dentist will then recommend a treatment plan based on their findings.
How Dentists Approach Treating TMJ Disorders
There are multiple methods that dental specialists use to treat TMJ disorders:
- Nightguards (which prevent teeth grinding while asleep)
- BOTOX injections
- Jaw surgeries
- Painkillers and other medications
During the consultation, the patient’s condition is fully assessed and a treatment process is selected. This assessment includes an x-ray scan of the mouth, allowing for a full analysis of the jawbone and teeth. This essentially lets us know where the pain is coming from.
If it is determined that the patient’s issue is medical in nature, the dentist will advise them to see a general practitioner or a specialist for further analysis and treatment.
What are the Telltale Signs of TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders come with a wide array of symptoms. Being able to spot them early on is vital, as it can help get the situation under control before it becomes worse. Patients with TMJ issues usually experience:
- Popping or clicking in the jaw
- Pain in the face, particularly around the ears
- Pain when opening the mouth (especially when eating)
- Jaw locking, or resistance upon trying to open the mouth
What is the Takeaway?
TMJ disorders can be caused by either medical or dental issues. In order to properly determine the cause of the disorder, patients must reach out to their dentist and undergo a full assessment of their condition. It is vital that patients refer to an experienced and highly revered Naples Dentist at Bayview Dental Arts to perform their assessment and treatment.