November is already here, and our office in Ogden, Utah is preparing for another celebration of TMJ Disorder Awareness Month. TMJ Disorder affects millions of people every year, especially adult women for whom it is twice as common. This month, we will look at the specifics of the disorder and how Broadbent Orthodontics can treat this condition.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The Temporomandibular joint is a complex articulation of the movable lower jaw (mandible) and the base of the skull (temporal bone) which makes it possible to close your mouth. Located on both sides of a patient’s head, the TMJ is a ball and socket joint with an intervening disc. All these parts work together with supporting jaw muscles and ligaments that allow a person to chew, speak, and swallow.
TMJ disorder affects millions of Americans between ages 20 and 40. It causes significant jaw pain in the joint and along the muscles that control the jaw’s movement. It is sometimes difficult to identify the root cause. There are several different ways it can occur with no definitive way to prevent the disorder from occurring.
Do I Have TMJ Disorder?
The most common symptoms reported for patients with TMJ Disorder include:
- Regular headaches and neck pain
- Pain in and around the ear
- Jaw pain, especially in the morning or late afternoon
- Sensitive teeth
- Soreness in the jaw muscle
- Trouble with opening and closing the mouth
- Clicking sound when the mouth opens or closes
- Difficulty biting, chewing, and yawning
If you suffer from one or more of the following symptoms, you may want to look into scheduling an appointment with our office in Ogden, Utah. Though these symptoms are common, they are not a formal diagnosis for TMJ disorder.
How Does Broadbent Orthodontics in North Ogden, Utah Treat TMJ Disorder?
There are a few non-invasive treatment options available for TMJ Disorder. These include night guards, which patients wear while sleeping to hold teeth apart and prevent grinding. This eases pressure put on the TMJ joint, allowing it to slide back into position for less of an impact.
The most effective treatment for TMJ disorder is orthodontic braces. This straightens teeth to their proper alignment, allowing patients to have a perfect bite and keep TMJ pain away. More severe cases of TMJ disorder may require jaw surgery from an OMS surgeon.
Schedule an Appointment at Broadbent Orthodontics in North Ogden, Utah
At Broadbent Orthodontics in North Ogden, Utah, we customize our services for each patient to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. We want all our patients to smile with confidence! We can provide you with orthodontic treatments that can help you get that perfect smile you have always wanted! Schedule an appointment on our website today.
