TMJ disorder, commonly known as TMD or simply TMJ, is a complex condition that afflicts the jaw joints and muscles directly in front of your ears, which control the movement of your lower jaw. These joints, called the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), are somewhat delicate, and when they are damaged or stressed, you may experience a number of annoying symptoms, such as jaw pain and difficulty eating.
But what if TMD remains untreated for a long period of time? It may become much more than a mere annoyance. In fact, it could spell seriously bad news for your oral health and overall wellness! This blog post explains the consequences of untreated TMD and why timely treatment is so important.
Untreated TMD and Your Oral Health
TMD is often associated with teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). Without proper intervention, bruxism can cause significant premature wear and tear on your dental enamel and the bone surrounding the teeth. This can also lead to increased sensitivity and a heightened risk of cracks and breaks in your teeth. Repairing seriously worn-down teeth can cost quite a bit of money.
Untreated TMD, Your Overall Health, and Your Quality of Life
Even more than it affects your oral health, untreated TMJ disorder could have some big consequences for your overall health and quality of life:
- Problems with the TMJs are often associated with frequent headaches and migraines.
- Due to limited chewing ability, TMD may cause you to become malnourished.
- TMD is known to be a descending disorder. In other words, it can cause aches and pains throughout your body, such as in your neck, shoulders, and back.
- You may experience tinnitus (ringing in your ears).
- In some cases, TMJ disorder is associated with disordered breathing during sleep and insomnia. Prolonged sleep problems can increase your risk of issues like heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and dementia.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
If you have been experiencing symptoms of TMD, you should seek treatment as soon as your schedule allows. Be sure to visit a specialist who has extensive experience and education in how the TMJs work and how to treat them. After a thorough evaluation, they can design a personalized treatment plan that aims to address the root cause of your condition, rather than simply address its symptoms. Timely treatment can protect your overall wellness!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Tom Hall is an orthodontic specialist who has special training and 28 years of experience in the treatment of TMJ disorder. He offers a number of different therapies, and his goal is always to provide conservative care that produces long-term results. If you have been struggling with jaw pain and related symptoms, Dr. Hall and our team would be pleased to evaluate your case and recommend your next steps. Contact us at 713-862-8223.