Heres a post from our Dental Squadron demonstrating how dental health covers more than just your teeth and gums. Temporo-Mandibular Disorders (commonly referred to as TMD) are a group of conditions that involve pain and/or dysfunction of the TMJs, muscles of face and neck, as well as nerves and other structures that support them. The Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) hinges the lower jaw to the skull and is located just in front of the ears. Everyone has two TMJs. The jaw system (TMJs, muscles, nerves, etc.) is used daily for numerous activities (speech, chewing, yawning, etc.). Like with any musculoskeletal joint system (wrist, hip, knee,) these structures can become strained or injured if they overused or not given sufficient rest. Frequently, people adopt behaviors that are not part of normal jaw function, but can create additional loads and strains on the jaw system. Examples include teeth clenching, fingernail biting, gum chewing, and jaw posturing. Many TMD symptoms can be successfully managed by recognizing and addressing behaviors that overuse and strain the jaw system. The teeth should only touch when chewing and swallowing. The remainder of the time the teeth should be kept apart, not even resting lightly together. Jaw position should be relaxed and comfortable. Tongue should rest in the floor of the mouth just behind the lower front teeth. Do not press the tongue against the roof of your mouth or situate it between your teeth to keep them apart as this can cause undue stress on the muscles and joints. Think “teeth apart, lips/face relaxed, tongue on floor of mouth”-use as a reminder to check your relaxed position frequently during the day. Many people often ask, “What about my click/pop?” Noises in the jaw joints are very common. Up to 30% of the general population have popping or clicking in one or both TMJs, but rarely are they a cause for concern. Because of their proximity to the ears, TMJ noises are usually louder and more noticeable. If an individual has severe pain or jaw dysfunction and/or limited mobility or further questions regarding potential TMD (Temporal-Mandibular Disorder) symptoms, they are advised to visit their dental professional for a full evaluation and diagnosis.
Posted on: Wed, 12 Nov 2014 23:42:34 +0000
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