Understanding The TMJ Disorder, Its Relief and Remedy Through Implant Dentistry

Malocclusion is a dental problem wherein the upper and lower teeth don't fit together in biting or chewing. In layman's term, it is called Bad bite. A bad bite is one of the reasons why one suffers TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJD affects the joint where the jaw and skull meet causing pain to radiate on face, neck, and shoulder areas. If malocclusion is the reason behind TMJ, Cosmetic dentistry may offer occlusal equilibration procedure. Occlusal equilibration is a procedure that modifies or corrects how the upper and lower teeth mesh. Through this, temporomandibular joint disorder can be eliminated.

It is easy to understand why the upper and lower teeth should work together. If only a few teeth engage in chewing or biting, those teeth will endure much force and subject to excessive weariness in an attempt to locate a position where the forces are more in balance. Teeth misalignment and teeth loss also subject the jaw muscles to fatigue due to its effort to achieve a balance force distribution on the teeth. The jaw joints may eventually develop popping, grating, clicking or pain from the unequal balance of forces due to the teeth's constant effort of grinding movement.

But, one must understand that a thorough medical examination is needed before submitting oneself to a dental procedure. Although cosmetic dentistry deals with correcting misaligned teeth, only an expert on TMJ can state what procedure is right on a certain case. Head or jaw trauma, loss of molars, scoliosis or even arthritis is some of the causes of TMJ disorder. If this is the case, additional neurological examinations is needed to be able to pinpoint the exact cause of TMJD. But, majority of TMJ cases are teeth related which can be usually treated with orthodontic procedure or through implant dentistry.

While treatment is still on its way, here are some TMJ relief techniques that can alleviate the pain and can be done at the comfort of your own home. First, you must relax yourself and make an effort to ease the tension in your jaw. Once relaxed, slowly start doing some jaw exercises by lightly pressing the jaw with your hands for five seconds. Do it a couple of times then move the jaw from side to side after. Hot and cold packs can also help. Do it alternately with a ten-minute interval. A good posture also helps give relief.

Avoid excessive chewing as well as teeth clenching as these may stress out the joint. Popping magnesium, according to recent studies, can also relieve the agonizing pain. Although not all cosmetic dentistry practitioners agree, there are doctors who recommend homeopathic remedies like arnica that helps speed up relief. Alternative treatment like acupressure is also suggested. Finding the right cure for TMJ disorder is important to an affected individual. If mistreated, further complication may arise. So, never rush yourself to be treated the way you wanted it to be. With a little patience, your TMJD will be cured in no time.