Skip to Content
chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up chevron-right chevron-left arrow-back star phone quote checkbox-checked search wrench info shield play connection mobile coin-dollar spoon-knife ticket pushpin location gift fire feed bubbles home heart calendar price-tag credit-card clock envelop facebook instagram twitter youtube pinterest yelp google reddit linkedin envelope bbb pinterest homeadvisor angies
Nov 21, 2024|Health

How TMD Can Impact Your Overall Health

The Ripple Effect on Your Health

Temporomandibular joint disorder is a condition that alters every part of daily living. From experiencing relentless discomfort to systemic health complications, TMJ disorder is far more intricate than you may realize. To protect and enhance your overall health, Xpress Dental is here to shine a light on the risks associated with TMJ disorder.

TMJ Disorder Treatment in McAllen, TX

What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly called TMJ, refers to several conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. This joint is the connecting point between the skull and the jaw, facilitating movements such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. TMJ disorders alter these basic functions, leading to varying degrees of pain and numerous side effects.

Signs of TMJ Disorder

If you suspect you have TMJ, it’s likely due to the associated symptoms. Some of the signs of TMJ include:

  • Facial and jaw pain
  • Jaw dysfunction and/or misalignment
  • Frequent clicking, popping, or locking sensations in the jaw
  • Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
  • Muscle spasms
  • Jaw tenderness
  • Limited jaw mobility
  • Neck and/or back pain

The Side Effects of Unmanaged TMJ Disorder

Early-stage TMJ is often tolerable. However, failing to secure proper dental care allows this condition to become worse, leading to uncomfortable side effects and complications. Due to the role of the temporomandibular joint, these complications have the potential to impact virtually every aspect of your everyday life.

Chronic TMJ Pain & Discomfort

Chronic TMJ pain is amongst the most prominent side effects of temporomandibular joint disorder. This condition affects the face, jaw, shoulders, and neck, sparking stiffness and tension that compromises your ability to perform basic tasks without experiencing debilitating discomfort. Over time, these problematic sensations significantly affect a person’s overall quality of life.

Restlessness & Persistent Fatigue

TMJ pain ranges in terms of severity. However, it is not uncommon for this condition to cause extreme discomfort that disrupts your ability to sleep and relax. Persistent TMJ pain is often linked to disrupted rest and unhealthy sleep patterns, leading to relentless daytime fatigue, lack of concentration, and other unfavorable cognitive occurrences.

Migraines & Headaches

Migraines and tension headaches are commonly associated with the progression of TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint is surrounded by nerves and muscles that facilitate head and neck movement. When this joint becomes compromised, the tension can lead to frequent headaches, migraines, and debilitating pain with even the most minor movements.

Oral Health Consequences

TMJ disorder is known to trigger jaw misalignment and bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding. These issues are not solely a nuisance but also threaten the integrity of your teeth, gums, and smile. Without the proper interventions, these issues increase the risk of fractured or broken teeth, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.

Emotional Unwellness

Disruptive sleep patterns, ongoing fatigue, and chronic pain caused by TMJ disorder form a foundation of overall emotional unwellness. Many individuals with TMJ experience elevated stress levels, depression, and anxiety, making it even more challenging to pursue the appropriate care. Moreover, these mental health concerns can also accelerate the development of systemic health conditions.

How to Achieve & Sustain Relief

To overcome chronic TMJ pain and the subsequent symptoms, it’s imperative to seek professional treatment. Depending on the underlying cause and severity of your condition, a dentist may recommend one or a combination of treatments. Early-stage treatments focus on management and maintenance, however, advanced TMJ may require surgical interventions.

TMJ Treatment Options

At Xpress Dental, we treat minor and complex cases of TMJ pain. To alleviate the strain of this disruptive condition, we may recommend a TMJ treatment modality, including:

  • Mouthguards or jaw stabilization appliances
  • Restorative or prosthodontic care to correct jaw and bite misalignment
  • Steroid or Botox injections to ease tension
  • Correctional jaw surgery

Learn More About Living With TMJ Disorder

If you are navigating the early onset or progression of temporomandibular joint disorder, relief is closer than you think. Discover compassionate care and personalized TMJ treatment with Xpress Dental. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact our friendly team today.

Back to the top