Guests find treatment for TMJ symptoms in Greenville

At some point, many teens and adults have experienced tightness in their jaws. Often times, this is caused by overuse or stress. However, for some guests, the tightness or pain may be due to inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When this joint is not working properly, guests may experience TMJ symptoms such as pain, headaches, or a clicking sound when they open and close their mouths. For guests in Greenville, Dr. John Palmer of Palmer Distinctive Dentistry offers TMJ treatment.

Causes of joint inflammation

TMJ may be caused by overworking or stressing the jaw. This can occur when someone clenches their jaw or grinds their teeth. Although this sounds uncomfortable and like something that can be controlled, in many cases it cannot be prevented as clenching or grinding the teeth may be done subconsciously. Many guests with TMJ grind their teeth in their sleep when they are completely unaware of the action.

Symptoms of TMJ

Although pain by the ears and a popping sound when you open your mouth are the most commonly known symptoms of TMJ, every case is different. Additional symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Pain behind the eyes
• Jaw pain when yawning or opening your mouth widely
• Pain in your ears while eating
• Locked jaws
• Jaw muscles tenderness

Treating your pain

Before treating your condition, the underlying cause must first be determined. Some guests may find relief just in resting the jaw for a period of time by eating soft foods and not overextending the mouth. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding tough foods or discovering healthy outlets for your stress.

Guests who grind their teeth or clench their jaws while sleeping may benefit from a nighttime oral appliance. As a non-surgical treatment option, oral appliances such as a mouth guard protect the teeth and relieve pressure on the jaw. The mouth guard lessens muscle tension to alleviate pain.

Dr. Palmer is trained and experienced at properly diagnosing symptoms of TMJ and will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Stop living with jaw pain. Contact Palmer Distinctive Dentistry for an appointment today.

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