Aches And Pains In The Jaw - It Could Be TMJ!

Also known as TMJ, this disorder has a series of problems that go along with it. Your aches and pains might actually indicate Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction.

The following are some of the symtoms associated with TMJ:

1. Misaligned teeth (an incorrect bite will affect the jaw.)
2. A 'clicking' or 'grinding' sound when you open or close your mouth.
3. A ringing or aching in and around the ear.
4. A pain or tenderness of the hard or soft tissue in the jaw area.
5. Facial pain.
6. Aches or pains when chewing or swallowing.
7. Headaches.
8. A 'locking' jaw joint.
9. A shoulder and/or neck ache.

Although any of these signs and symptoms could be a Temporomandibular Joint Problem, it takes a health care professional that is trained in that specific area to diagnose a TMJ problem. If you think you may have TMJ, discuss all of your symptoms with your dentist or your personal care physician.  It is a treatable disorder.  There is no need to suffer!

Keep smiling!

Do You Grind Your Teeth? Know These Facts!

I suffer from bruxism.....I have for many years now, and I thought I'd do a little research and blog about it because it affects your body in so so many ways. First, you should know that it is an unconscious, involuntary thing. When you are unconsciously grinding your teeth (clenching while awake, clenching and grinding while you are asleep) you are putting up to ten times the force on your teeth and jaws than when you are chewing food! Many people don't even realize they're doing it, and consequently, suffer from unexplained problems such as jaw pain, muscle fatigue, headaches, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, TMJ and a variety of other conditions, aside from the fact that it can fracture, shorten and cause your teeth to loosen, erode and decay.

The long term effects of bruxism are distressing because it can actually change your physical appearance! It can cause bags under the eyes, enlargement of the muscles around the joints of the jaw and curling of the skin around the lips. There are devices (night orthotics) that dentists can make for you to wear when you're sleeping to prevent this damage from happening. If you suspect that you are having this problem, ask your dentist today about a diagnosis and a night orthotic device to help correct the problem before it does long term damage.

Keep Smiling!

Can Stress Ruin Your Teeth?

Did you know that when your anxious or stressed out, you're unconsciously ruining your teeth?

You might ask, how does being stressed or anxious really affect my teeth, Right? Well let me explain!

Stress and anxiety have been linked to clenched jaws and bruxism (teeth grinding). Although this is not considered a dangerous disorder, it can put pressure on the jaw muscles and tissues causing facial soreness and can wear down your teeth causing fractured or broken teeth.

 Here are some tips that can help stop teeth grinding while stressed or anxious:

• Do a few yoga stretches 
• A couple deep breathes
• Listen to a relaxing song (nature sounds, jazz music, Hawaiian music)
• Apply warm washcloth against check to help sooth the jaw muscles
• Drink water
• Place your tongue between the teeth if you notice grinding/clenching
• Wear a night guard

 If your stressed or your anxiety levels are at an all time high, you should consult with your primary physician to help you identity the underlying problems and prescribe you the proper medication. Hopefully this will help save your teeth in the long run!

Do you Grind Your Teeth? Know These Facts.

I suffer from bruxism.....I have for many years now, and I thought I'd do a little research and blog about it because it affects your body in so so many ways. First, you should know that it is an unconscious, involuntary thing. When you are unconsciously grinding your teeth (clenching while awake, clenching and grinding while you are asleep) you are putting up to ten times the force on your teeth and jaws than when you are chewing food! Many people don't even realize they're doing it, and consequently, suffer from unexplained problems such as jaw pain, muscle fatigue, headaches, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, TMJ and a variety of other conditions, aside from the fact that it can fracture, shorten and cause your teeth to loosen, erode and decay.

The long term effects of bruxism are distressing because it can actually change your physical appearance! It can cause bags under the eyes, enlargement of the muscles around the joints of the jaw and curling of the skin around the lips. There are devices (night orthotics) that dentists can make for you to wear when you're sleeping to prevent this damage from happening. If you suspect that you are having this problem, ask your dentist today about a diagnosis and a night orthotic device to help correct the problem before it does long term damage.

Keep Smiling!