Many people in the community suffer from issues with their jaw. It may range from
something as simple as a click in the jaw to something more serious like
temporo-mandibular disorder (TMD). Issues with the joints of the jaw usually occur
in people who are under increased pressure, stemming from problems of subconsciously
clenching and grinding their teeth during periods of stress and tension. Signs and
symptoms of TMD include: muscle pain in the jaw, temples and neck resulting in
headaches; clicking and deviation of the jaw upon opening; lock jaw; jaw muscle
soreness upon waking in the morning and; ringing in the ears or earaches.
Prolonged periods of grinding and clenching of your teeth can be very harmful to
your teeth and lead to permanent damage to your jaw joint, as well as fractured
teeth and fillings. Apart from stress, TMD has been linked to changes in your
regular bite, poor posture and sleep positions. However, all these problems can
usually be solved through consultation with your dentists and the fabrication of a
splint for your teeth/jaw. In more difficult cases, it may involve management with
muscle and joint specialists and/or minor surgery.
If you feel you have this
condition, please do not hesitate to contact us to make an appointment for your
consultation.