When we’re talking about your TMJs, we remind you that this means we’re discussing your jaw joints! What are they? Well, they’re the joints on either side of your head (one on each side) that give your jaw the ability to move. You can open and close your mouth. Your jaw can even move from one side to the other. Without these joints, you wouldn’t really be able to laugh, speak, eat, etc., the way that you do. So, our Virginia Beach, VA team wants you to keep in mind that protecting your TMJ health is a pretty big deal! Consider some foundational elements you may not know much about just yet!
Function: Good Versus Bad
If your TMJs are functioning quite well, then you probably won’t even find yourself thinking about them. When your TMJ health is spot on, these structures are comfortable and are just doing their thing. However, when your jaw joint health isn’t what it could be, you may notice that it negatively impacts the way your mouth feels and it impacts your function, too. First, you may have some discomfort in and around these joints and you may notice that they start making noises (like popping sounds). You will also detect problems like difficulty chewing, locking, and more. Your Virginia Beach dentist reminds you that when such changes occur, you should visit us!
Damage And What’s Going On
So, why is this happening, you wonder, if you’re dealing with TMJ health problems? Can’t your jaw joints just stay healthy without much effort? Of course, you don’t have to go out of your way to care for your joints. With that said, consider the following:
- Any type of injury to your TMJs can lead to TMJ disorder
- If you’re exhausting or straining your TMJs (such as by chewing too frequently or eating things that are extremely hard or tough), it may cause problems
- Bruxism disorder can contribute to this problem
Treatment Options
If you determine with our help that you are dealing with TMJ disorder, you want to know: What can you do to regain your TMJ health? The fortunate news is that our Virginia Beach practice offers treatment for you, during which you’ll wear a supportive mouthguard when you sleep at night to reduce any stress or strain on your jaw joints. Next, we can help you better understand the do’s and don’ts of daily life in terms of protecting your jaw!
See Us For TMJ Care And Answers
When you have questions about your TMJ health, possible damage, symptoms, and what you should do for improvement, come in to see our team! Receive information, treatment, and guidance for better jaw health. Contact Absolute Dental Care today in Virginia Beach, VA to schedule a visit by calling (757) 428-7440. We proudly welcome patients Virginia Beach and all surrounding communities.
