The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to the skull in front of each ear. Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket of the joint. The TMJs allow you to move your jaw up and down and side to side. This lets you talk, chew, and yawn. Any issues with the TMJs and the muscles that are associated with them are called TMJ disorders. The following are causes of TMJ disorders:
- Injury to the jaw, the TMJ, or the muscles of your head and neck
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Movement of the disc between the ball and socket of the TMJ
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Stress, which can cause you to tighten the muscles in your face and jaw
If you experience any of the following symptoms, Dr. Robert H. Watson may treat TMJ in Charlotte, North Carolina:
- Pain in your face, jaw joint, neck, shoulders, or ear area when you move your jaw
- Issues when you try to open your mouth wide
- Jaws that lock open or shut
- Clicking or grating sounds when you move your jaw
- A tired feeling in the face
- Trouble chewing or a suddenly uncomfortable bite
- Swelling in the face
When a patient has a TMJ disorder, our dentist will supply them with a bite guard or splint. This guard is custom made and is worn over the teeth at night to protect your teeth and jaws from the effects of teeth grinding and clenching.
Please contact our dental office today to learn more and to schedule a visit.