Persistent pain of the jaw lasting several weeks is hard to deal with unless addressed by a specialist. That painful clicking sensation while chewing, persistent tension headaches in the morning, and unexpected instances of jaw lock in the middle of the conversation should be considered signs of TMJ disorder. This may get better only when you find the right TMJ specialist Buford GA.
Difference Between a TMJ Specialist and a General Dentist
This is probably the point that makes many patients confused when seeking proper treatment. Not every dentist is prepared to diagnose and treat TMJ disorder. You will need a TMJ specialist Buford GA for that.
While dealing with cavities and performing cleaning procedures is easy for any professional, the issue of diagnosing the causes of the jaw clicking needs specific skills. The TMJ specialist Buford GA will consider all factors: the bite, muscles, and jaw joint, instead of treating individual parts of the problem.
What Really Causes TMJ Disorder
In most cases, it takes some time to accumulate. Stress-related clenching while at work, nocturnal grinding, a misalignment in the bite- it all adds up over months and years and results in the destruction of cartilage.
This creates constant tension, which is experienced by the muscles of the surrounding area. And the truth is, most people don’t associate their evening headaches with the problem in the jaw until it is mentioned.
Why The Statistics Are Relevant
Statistics show that it is not a rare disorder that occurs only occasionally. According to a Journal of Clinical Medicine, temporomandibular joint disorders affect almost 34% of the world’s population now. And this number is expected to rise to 39% by 2030. Therefore, you need proper treatment and care from a TMJ specialist, to avoid complications.
Common Signs You May Need a TMJ Evaluation
The problem with TMJ disorders is that the signs are often very misleading. They don’t clearly indicate when you should visit a general family dentistry Buford immediately. But this is what you must look out for:
- Unusual clicking, popping, or grinding sound coming from your jaws when biting or speaking
- Chronic pain in the jaws that extends to the ears, temples, and neck area
- Difficulty in fully opening your mouth, or even brief episodes of the jaw locking
- Morning headaches accompanied by facial tenderness and tightness
- Chipped, flattened, or worn-out teeth due to grinding at night
- Wearing poorly fitted dentures in Buford
If these or similar symptoms occur, you should consult an expert as soon as possible. The specialist in the family dental clinic Buford will install a special night guard that helps relieve joint tension during your sleep. This step is important as many problems with TMJ occur precisely during the sleeping period.
How This Connects to Your Overall Dental Care
TMJ disorders have a higher chance of success when they are treated by a dentist at a family dental clinic Buford who knows and understands your history. This is because such a dentist will be able to immediately diagnose issues like bad bites even before they present themselves as painful symptoms.
General family dentistry Buford relies on continuity in order to treat your teeth effectively. So, you will have to follow regularity in dental check-ups and cleanings as well as specialized care for TMJ disorder.
Conclusion
Persistent jaw pain is definitely not the type of problem to tolerate for an indefinite period of time. No matter whether it’s chronic TMJ pain or some bite problems due to improper fitting of dentures in Buford, Buford Family Dental offers a coordinated and experienced treatment plan which addresses the underlying cause.
FAQs
1. When should I visit a TMJ specialist Buford GA?
The emergence of pain with a clicking sound, trouble chewing, or a locked jaw that persists for more than two weeks requires a consultation with a TMJ specialist Buford GA. Otherwise, the condition will simply have more time to develop.
2. Are treatments for TMJ disorders paid by dental insurance?
Whether the procedure will be covered or not depends on your plan and on whether the treatment will be regarded as medical or dental. But in most cases, night guards and consultations get at least partially covered by insurance.
3. Can TMJ problems lead to the development of pain in the head?
Yes, it happens due to tension in the jaw muscles. It can trigger headaches that appear out of nowhere. However, treatment of TMJ problems can eliminate the pain in the head as well.
4. Can the use of dentures in Buford cause any TMJ issues?
Yes, the use of dentures in Buford may cause TMJ issues if their fitting is not accurate. Incorrect fitting of dentures increases stress on the jaws and worsens the already existing symptoms of TMJ. Therefore, it is crucial to get them checked properly.
5. How long does the treatment of TMJ take?
Usually, after wearing a nightguard for about four to six weeks, patients experience a definite improvement. However, the longer treatment takes place, the more difficult the condition is, particularly in the case of severe grinding.
Author
Dr. Hira Khan
Bio
Dr. Hira Khan is an international dentist from Pakistan who has received her dental degree in her home country and then got her DDS degree from NYU. She is a compassionate doctor at Buford Family Dental who pays attention to patients’ education.
4536 Nelson Brogdon Blvd.,
Building A Buford, GA 30518
Phone: 678-730-2005
Email: staff@bufordfamilydental.com
