Your jaw joint is unique compared to all the other joints in your body. This incredible structure, also known as your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ for short, is the only instance of two separate joints working in concert with every movement. This is because you have one TMJ on either side of your face, and your jaw won’t work without both.
This distinctive structure should be reason enough to maintain a healthy TMJ, but many people don’t appreciate how hard-working your jaw truly is. That is until your TMJ stops working correctly, and then it can become a significant issue.
At Anthony Bartels DDS Family Dentistry, we want to treat any disorder with your jaw joint before it impedes your everyday life. Here are three things to look for that might prompt a visit to your dentist in Jonesboro, AR.
#1 – Joint Inflammation Is Your Enemy
Most people understand that a stressed and overused joint can swell painfully and interfere with normal function. This also impacts your TMJ. Numerous causes are associated with joint inflammation, among them being:
- Bruxism or teeth grinding
- Habitual jaw clenching
- Ice chewing
- Teeth or bite misalignment
- Unevenly worn teeth
- Missing teeth gaps cause remaining teeth to shift
If these habits or issues sound familiar, they could harm your TMJs.
#2 – Untreated TMJ Disorders Can Become Chronic
Your joints all use cartilage and other soft tissue to facilitate movement. One major problem with jaw joint issues is that these soft tissues can break down if your joint malfunctions. If you don’t seek treatment with a qualified TMJ dentist, you can suffer life-long consequences like arthritis and even lockjaw.
#3 – We Can Relieve Jaw Joint Pain
The main reason to visit Dr. Anthony Bartels for TMJ disorders is that we can help! Using non-invasive oral appliances we custom-create just for you, your jaw can be repositioned and realigned to promote healthy joint function. These can also solve teeth-grinding problems and take pressure off your facial muscles.
We Provide TMJ Treatment and Relief in Jonesboro, AR
Your jaw joint is vital to a healthy and satisfying life, and you will inevitably suffer when it’s not working properly. Luckily, the team at Dr. Bartel’s Jonesboro dentist office is ready to help. So if you have TMJ pain due to teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or general tension, we encourage you to set up a consultation today.