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The jaw joint is located just in front of each ear. It is a complex
joint, and has many muscles controlling it. Many people experience severe
pain
in and around the joint for a number of reasons. The pain can be sharp
right in the area of the joint, or it may feel like an earache. It may
be persistent, and often severe, headaches result. People with TMJ problems
may also experience muscles spasms in the neck, back or shoulders.
A bad
bite, or persistent grinding or clenching of teeth can cause TMJ. Grinding
and clenching seems to be related to stress. Correcting a poor
bite and reducing stress in our lives would be ideal options, however
we often need relief immediately.
Basically grinding, clenching and
a bad bite cause the muscles that control the jaw to be overworked,
they get fatigued and go into spasm.
That is
when the pain begins. An appliance can be made to wear over the teeth
that will allow the muscles to rest and reduce the symptoms. Various
medications can also help reduce the pain, as well as massage of
the muscles, moist heat, and even physical therapy can help.
If you experience
any of the above symptoms, it is not wise to ignore them, or attempt
to cope with them on your own. It can get worse,
without warning, and permanent damage to the joint can result,
which may require
surgery. The best thing to do is call our office immediately to
be evaluated and get you on the road to recovery and relief.
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