If you wish for your smile to continue to operate as intended, it is important to make sure all parts involved work as intended. This includes your temporomandibular joints, also called your TMJs. TMJs are ball-and-socket joints located within your jaw that are essential for opening and closing your mouth and eating and chewing as intended. To help avoid the risk of a TMJ disorder, an understanding of the causes of TMJ disorders and treatments can help you.
Typical causes of TMJ disorders include bruxism, malocclusions, arthritis and dietary changes. If you routinely find yourself suffering from TMJ disorders, you will need to make sure you have the proper treatment plans in place.
Try eating healthier and softer foods as well as practicing exercises that can help strengthen your jaw. To further assist your smile and keep your jaw safe, practice calming techniques such as yoga and biofeedback. Additional treatments for TMJ disorders can include heat and ice packs to deal with any respective pain or inflammation that may occur. If you require further treatments such as a night guard or bite plate, visit your dentist.
If you require further treatment for a TMJ disorder, Dr. Carl McMillan, our doctor, and our team at TMJ Therapy will help you with your oral health care. If you would like to book an appointment with our office in American Fork, Utah, please call us at 801-756-0900.