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Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Temporomandibular (TEMP-er-o-man-DIB-u-ler) joint
disorder, also called ""TMJ,'' affects the joints in front of
the ears that serve as hinges for your jaw. In TMJ, one or both
of these joints become swollen and painful The problem is more
common in women than in men.
Causes
TMJ is usually caused by tight
jaw muscles and grinding of the teeth. Other causes include
injury to the jaw, stress, poorly fitting dentures, and
arthritis. The condition is sometimes the result of a ""bite''
problem in which your upper and lower jaw are not lined up
correctly. A family history of the disorder puts you at greater
risk of developing it.
Signs/Symptoms
You'll typically note a dull,
aching pain below the ear on one side of the jaw. This pain
will get worse when you yawn. Pain may move to your ear, head,
or shoulder. You may hear a clicking or popping noise when you
open your mouth. Your mouth may not open all the way, and your
teeth may not line up when you close your mouth.
Care
Your dentist may take x-rays of
your mouth and feel the action of the joint while you open and
close your mouth. You'll probably be given a prescription to
relieve pain and swelling. If the problem is serious, you may
need surgery.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
You may take over-the-counter pain relievers such as
aspirin or ibuprofen.
-
Applying heat may help relieve pain. Use a heating
pad set on low, a warm washcloth, or a hot water bottle
filled with warm water. Do this for 15 minutes every 2
hours.
-
Eat a well-balanced soft diet until the pain
disappears. Choose foods such as gelatin, cooked cereal,
baby food, ice cream, applesauce, bananas, eggs, pasta,
cottage cheese, soups, and yogurt. Don't eat hard chewy
foods, such as bagels.
-
Your dentist may suggest a nightguard (a plastic mold
that fits over the teeth) to wear while sleeping. This
helps to prevent you from grinding your
teeth.
-
Learn methods to relax your
muscles.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You have new or unexplained
symptoms.
-
You still have pain after taking your pain
medication.
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