Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD or TMJ) are very common, and many Americans experience some TMD pain at some point in their lives. It can be as innocuous as a mildly distracting throb in the jaw. It can also be as debilitating as a severe migraine or the inability to comfortably chew food.

How can one small joint cause all this trouble? While relatively small, the temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. It works like a hinge, allowing you to open and close your mouth…and when it doesn’t work properly, it can be devastating.

Dentists aren’t exactly sure why Temporomandibular Joint pain is so common, but they put the blame on everything from crooked teeth to tight neck muscles to the habit of teeth grinding.

If you experience significant pain in your temporomandibular joint on a regular basis, make an appointment with your dentist. He or she may be able to order a special oral appliance from SML to help alleviate your pain…and maybe change your life.