LAS VEGAS, NV – You do not have to live with the pain of Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) – also called Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) – and it is important to know the facts to see if you could suffer from this treatable condition, according to Dr. David Alpan, a Los Angeles TMJ dentist.
What are some of the signs? According to Los Angeles orthodontist Alpan, they include an incorrect relationship of the lower jaw to upper jaw and skull, an incorrect relationship of the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bones, and jaw joint problems. Some external signs are one eye higher than the other, one shoulder higher than the other, one hip higher than the other or one leg shorter than the other.
Patients with TMJ usually first realize there is a problem when they begin to feel throbbing jaw pain, or craniofacial discomfort (head and face pain). They also might notice that their teeth are extra sensitive, or their jaws are clicking or popping when moving. Ear pain or other ear problems can also be tell-tale signs of TMJ-a patient may experience vertigo, ringing in the ears, or stuffy, clogged ears. Aches and pains in the eyes, throat, neck and shoulders can also be TMJ signs.
Many people live with symptoms without complaining, thinking they are normal because it does not hurt or bother them enough. Those who suffer from TMJ may experience jaw joint pain while chewing, or clicking sounds while chewing. Headaches, migraines, muscle spasms backaches and shoulder aches are also signs. Forms are available on Alpan’s website at https://aeortho.com.s196361.gridserver.com, which allow people to assess the symptoms and signs. They can be filled out prior to an appointment.
“If you have chronic pain, putting off the initial TMJ examination may result in more symptoms and more pain,” Alpan says. “As the body adapts, many of these signs and symptoms get harder and more costly to relieve or eliminate.”
At the office, specialists will perform an oral and physical exam, ask questions and then advise patients on how to proceed.
Alpan, who is as a Vegas invisible braces expert, says TMJ is very common, and often found in women of childbearing age. Treatment options are available to relieve TMJ pain and restore proper jaw function. While Alpan is a Vegas braces professional, his office also sees patients impacted by TMJ. This chronic condition can have a serious impact on quality of life.
Not all TMJ patients have every TMJ-related symptom, but many experience multiple problems at once. Patients are often misdiagnosed, in fact, because of the many symptoms they report. Some of the more debilitating symptoms include migraine headaches, muscle spasms and sleep apnea. Fortunately, TMJ is very treatable. With the right therapies, patients can resume a more normal lifestyle, free of pain, and with restored jaw function.
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