TMJ Disorder, the Symptoms, and Treatment that will help improve the Quality of Life

Recent statistics show that more than 50 million Americans experience severe headaches requiring medical intervention every year. For many of these people, their chronic headaches have had a negative effect on their quality of life. Unfortunately, most of these individuals don’t realize that they are suffering from a symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

What are TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders (TMD) are a group of disorders of the temporomandibular joint and the muscles and tendons surrounding this area. Because the TMJ connects the upper jaw (temporal bone) to the lower jaw (mandible), there can be several different symptoms of TMD. Here are some of the symptoms you can expect if you’re suffering from TMD.

• Tenderness and pain in the jaw
• Temporomandibular joint pain
• Pain in and around the ears
• Pain or difficulty when chewing
• Facial pain
• Joint locking makes it challenging to open and close the mouth

In many cases, TMJ disorders are caused by a dental condition known as occlusion, which is how your teeth fit together when biting down.

How TMJ Disorders Can Be Treated

If you have persistent tenderness or pain in your jaw or you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s time to seek the help of a qualified dentist.

At the practice of Greg G. Pitts DDS, you can find relief for your TMJ disorders. Dr. Pitts helps to correct the relationship between your teeth, muscles, and joints so that you can expect your discomfort to be minimized. He will create customized dental appliances that will serve to treat your TMJ disorder. Moreover, the team will work closely with you to help you develop the most effective treatment plan and appliance for your TMJ disorders.

Treatment for TMJ in American Fork, Utah

Dr. Greg Pitts and his team at the office of Greg G. Pitts, DDS in American Fork, Utah, are available to answer your questions about TMJ disorder treatment options. Give us a call at (801) 758-0019 or contact us online today for more information.