TMJ – also known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction or disorder – is a common culprit of consistent jaw pain. TMJ occurs when the temporomandibular joint – the sliding hinge joint that connects your jaw to your skull – isn’t functioning properly. This can lead to several unpleasant symptoms, such as jaw pain, ear pain, and even trouble chewing.
Seeking treatment from an experienced TMJ dentist in St. Louis is vital to easing your TMJ symptoms, but not all patients experiencing this disorder visit a professional for proper evaluation. TMJ is a medical condition that is not only painful and uncomfortable but can also affect the overall quality of your life. If left untreated, TMJ can lead to more serious health complications, as explained below.
Dental Issues
Bruxism – also known as teeth grinding – is a common symptom of TMJ. When you are constantly clenching and grinding your teeth over an extended period of time, this can cause extensive damage to your gum and teeth.
If your TMJ goes untreated, your bruxism can cause cracks or fractures within your teeth, receding gums, or even the need for restorative dentistry in St. Louis to restore your teeth to their original health and strength.
Headaches and Migraines
One of the common symptoms of TMJ is headaches. This is due to the temporomandibular joint connecting your jaw to your skull. The muscles around your skull – as well as the muscles in your neck and back – can become inflamed due to inflammation of the temporomandibular joint.
If your TMJ is left untreated, your headaches will become more of an issue. They will get more severe, and migraines may become more prevalent. If you believe your headaches are due to undiagnosed TMJ, it may be time to contact St. Louis TMJ dentist – Dr. Chris Hill – at Smile On Dental Studio.
Joint Damage
It comes as no surprise that undiagnosed TMJ can further irritate your temporomandibular joint. If you do not resolve the issue causing your jaw joint to be misaligned or not functioning properly, this issue will intensify, leading to further inflammation and a lack of treatment options.
If you develop significant jaw damage due to untreated TMJ in St. Louis, you may need a more serious surgical procedure instead of a less invasive treatment plan, such as using an oral appliance. This makes seeing a St Louis, Missouri, TMJ dentist of the utmost importance if your symptoms worsen.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Your temporomandibular joint plays a huge role in your quality of sleep. If you have a misaligned jaw due to TMJ, this can block your airway as you sleep, causing a condition called obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that prevents you from breathing during the night in intervals of 10 seconds or more – depriving you of oxygen.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious health condition – that, other than daytime grogginess – can lead to other serious health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart and liver issues. Treating your TMJ in St. Louis can prevent you from developing a serious sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Severe Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a buzzing or ringing sound in one or both ears that can be heard regularly. The ringing or buzzing sound can also come and go. Tinnitus is a possible symptom of TMJ, and if your TMJ is left untreated, that constant ringing sound can become beyond irritating and somewhat debilitating to your daily life.
Without proper treatment for your TMJ in St. Louis, your tinnitus will only worsen – especially if your TMJ is caused by a misaligned bite. Relief for your tinnitus can be provided through St. Louis TMJ dentistry. Your experienced TMJ dentist will evaluate your bite and decide the best treatment route for your needs.
Treat Your TMJ in St. Louis Today!
You do not have to let your TMJ symptoms spiral out of control. Prevent the development of further health complications by beginning TMJ treatment in St Louis. Visit experienced TMJ dentist Dr. Chris Hill at Smile On Dental Studio today to treat your TMJ and protect your overall health and well-being. Call (314) 678-7876 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chris Hill!
