What Can I Do for My TMJ?

TMJ is a relatively common condition in the US, but it’s not always well understood by the average person. Most people may know it as a problem with the jaw, but they may not even recognize the basic symptoms, let alone know how to treat it. Below, we’ll look at a few ways to tackle the problem, particularly if you’ve been living with TMJ pain in Beavercreek, OH for over a few weeks.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ refers to the actual joints that are located on both sides of your head. When it’s used in everyday conversation, it typically refers to a temporomandibular disorder, known in professional circles as TMD. If you damage the joint, whether it’s from injury, teeth misalignment, arthritis, or teeth grinding, you may experience swelling, clicking sounds when you open or close your mouth, or pressure behind your eyes.

Can I Treat TMJ?

In some cases, TMJ just goes away on its own. If you’re grinding your teeth at night due to a major deadline, you might find that your TMJ resolves itself as soon as the immediate pressure passes. In the meantime, you can control the discomfort with anything from over-the-counter pain relievers to hot/cold packs on the swollen areas. However, a dentist in Beavercreek, OH would tell you that if you’ve been experiencing severe pain or the pain doesn’t go away for a few days, it may be time to seek professional help.

Dentists in Beavercreek, OH

When TMJ has several causes, it helps to narrow down the suspects. If you’re interested in learning more about what you can do, the team at Keep Smiling Dental is here to help you settle on the best oral health plan for you.