Your jaw is a masterpiece of muscles and joints. It is a vital part of your daily life, whether you are chewing your favorite food or talking to your best friend. As such, it deserves your attention and protection. Here follows a succinct explanation of the enigmatic acronym “TMJ” as well as tips on preventing jaw disorders and caring for your opulent orifices.
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints, or the muscles and joints that help you open and close your mouth.
A TMJ disorder may be a side effect of jaw dislocation or injury, arthritis, your jaw’s natural alignment, or stress and teeth grinding. Symptoms include jaw pain, earaches, headaches, and clicking or popping noises when you open or close your mouth. There are many things you can do to protect your jaw from a TMJ disorder or lessen your symptoms after a diagnosis. Here are just a few tips:
Tips:
- Relax and strengthen your face and jaw muscles.
Do you have a habit of clenching your jaw when stressed? Practice mandible awareness. Meditation, jaw massage, medication and jaw strengthening exercises, are all viable options for those with jaw tension.
- Talk to Dr. David Solomon about getting a mouth guard.
Do you grind your teeth? We can fit you with a comfortable, custom-made night guard, splint or bite guard to protect your teeth and jaw.
- Speak with Solomon & Wright Associates, P.C. about correcting jaw misalignment.
An overbite or underbite can be a risk to your jaw. Braces with rubber bands, headgear, and upper jaw expander, reverse pull face mask, cosmetic dentistry, and in severe cases surgery are all options.
Call us at 781-665-5222 or visit us in Melrose, Massachusetts to schedule an appointment.