The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may not get much attention in everyday conversation, but it plays a key role in your health and well-being. This small yet complex joint connects your jaw to your skull, allowing you to perform essential actions like chewing, speaking, and even yawning. When the TMJ malfunctions, however, it can lead to a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which is surprisingly common yet often overlooked. At Kenneth Hovden DDS, we know how crucial it is to address TMD early, as untreated cases can lead to escalating pain and irreversible damage over time.
What Is TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
The TMJ is one of the most used joints in your body, located on both sides of the face where your lower jaw meets your skull. Its smooth movement is supported by cartilage and lubricated by a small disc to prevent friction. However, when this joint becomes strained, misaligned, or inflamed, it disrupts the balance of your jaw’s function, causing pain and discomfort both locally and in surrounding areas.
Several factors can contribute to TMJ disorders, including misaligned bites, teeth grinding, physical injury, arthritis, or even jaw dislocations. Left unchecked, these minor irritations can grow into major health concerns, significantly affecting your daily life.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
TMD symptoms can vary, but certain signs should always raise a red flag. Frequent tension headaches or migraines, jaw pain accompanied by clicking or popping sounds, and sporadic locking of the jaw are all indicators. Discomfort in the neck, face, ears, or shoulders could also point toward an underlying TMJ issue. Beyond physical pain, TMD can cause dizziness, persistent earaches, tinnitus, and in some cases, even vision disturbances. Many patients also experience bruxism, or teeth grinding during sleep, which further aggravates symptoms and leads to challenges with chewing. Recognizing these warning signs and seeking treatment early is essential to preventing worsening complications.
How Untreated TMD Can Lead to Bigger Problems
Ignoring TMD symptoms might seem convenient, especially when life is already busy, but the consequences can be severe. Chronic headaches and migraines often intensify over time, significantly decreasing the quality of daily life. Prolonged grinding or clenching can lead to worn, cracked, or broken teeth, while persistent strain on the jaw joint can permanently damage cartilage, compromising bite alignment and jaw function. Furthermore, untreated TMD increases the likelihood of developing arthritis in the jaw, leading to even more pain and restricted movement. By addressing TMJ issues early, you can prevent a cascade of escalating complications and ensure greater long-term health.
Effective TMJ Treatment Options with Dr. Hovden
At Kenneth Hovden DDS, our TMJ care is tailored to your unique needs, providing effective relief while preventing further damage. Bite alignment therapy is a customized treatment designed to correct misalignment and reduce muscle strain, offering patients significant relief. Our TMJ-specific dental appliances, such as splints and mouth guards, are carefully designed to reposition the jaw, protect teeth, and alleviate pain.
Medication options, including anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants, effectively manage inflammation and discomfort. Complementing these treatments, hot and cold therapy are simple yet incredibly effective methods for soothing pain and reducing swelling at home. We also encourage lifestyle adjustments like diet modifications to avoid tough foods, stress reduction techniques, and limiting extensive jaw movements to better support TMJ recovery. These comprehensive solutions are designed to address the root cause of your symptoms and not just the effects, setting you on the path toward long-term wellness.
Take Control of Your TMJ Health Today
TMJ disorders don’t just disappear on their own. The longer symptoms like headaches, jaw discomfort, or bruxism are ignored, the higher the risk of long-term damage to your jaw joint and oral health. Addressing TMD early can protect your smile and significantly improve your quality of life.
Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Schedule a TMJ consultation at Kenneth Hovden DDS today, and take the first step toward relief and lasting health.
Contact Kenneth Hovden DDS:
650-755-6000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
901 Campus Dr Ste 202
Daly City, California
94015
