What Causes Jaw Pain And Results In The Diagnosis Of Tmj Disorder In Carlsbad, Ca?
When patients are dealing with jaw pain, they can visit a dentist to determine the cause of the issue. In many cases, it may result in a diagnosis of TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This is the joint that hinges the jaw so it opens and closes. It can malfunction and result in discomfort for the patient. Dr. Al A. Fallah of Carlsbad, CA discusses what causes TMJ disorder and how it can be treated.
WHAT CAUSES TMJ?
TMJ, or the more chronic condition known as TMD (temporomandibular disorder), is caused by damage or injury to the jaw joint. This results in localized pain and discomfort, and problems such as cracking, popping and locking of the joint. Common causes of TMD include:
- Injury to the jaw
- Injury to the teeth
- Jaw or tooth misalignment
- Grinding of the teeth
- Poor posture
- Arthritis
- Chronic stress
- Gum chewing
HOW CAN TMD BE TREATED?
Treatment of TMD is often achieved with oral appliance therapy. Dr. Al A. Fallah encourages patients to consider this non-invasive treatment before considering more intensive options such as surgery. Often, this is not necessary when patients move forward with oral appliance therapy to address the problems associated with the condition.
Oral appliance therapy requires patients to wear their mouthguard overnight and during times when the joint is being problematic to realign the jaw and reduce the tension in the joint. The mouth guards are extremely comfortable to wear and are easy to care for.
SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT WITH US TODAY!
If you have been experiencing pain and other concerns with your jaw, we encourage you to make an appointment with Dr. Al A. Fallah in Carlsbad, CA. His practice is located at 1293 Carlsbad Village Drive and can be reached by phone at (760) 730-1600 . Call today to discuss the possibility of a TMD diagnosis and effective treatment options.
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