Your mouth makes it possible to perform seemingly simple, daily tasks, such as chewing, talking, smiling, laughing, yawning and expressing yourself. In fact, there is nothing simple about how your mouth works. Whenever you move or open your mouth, a series of joints, hinges, muscles and ligaments work together to help you do what you want.
One of the most significant joints that makes it possible to use your mouth is the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. This joint is located on both sides of your head, and it connects the lower jaw to the skull.
Even though you use your TMJ countless times each day, most people do not experience any soreness or discomfort from overuse. This is simply because your TMJ is designed to be used this much. However, if your TMJ becomes damaged or injured in some way, it can cause severe and almost chronic pain in a condition called TMJ disorder, or TMD.
Your TMJ can become damaged or worn out in a variety of ways, some of which include a facial or jaw injury, a misaligned bite, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis, poor posture, and excessive gum chewing.
If you experience frequent pain localized around the jaw joint, we invite you to visit our dentist at Ajey Varma. Dr. Ajey Varma can perform a careful and thorough examination to determine if you are suffering from TMD. If this is the source of your discomfort, we can provide you with a customized treatment plan to help you find relief.
Contact us today at 253-752-6915 to learn more about our TMD treatments in Tacoma, Washington, and to set up your appointment with our dentist.