While TMJ disorders are painful, many people may be tempted to let them go untreated. While addressing symptoms like headaches and neck pain with over-the-counter pain relievers may work for a while, allowing a TMJ disorder to progress can lead to negative consequences for your overall health and your quality of life. Here’s a brief overview of why you should have your TMJ problems treated as soon as possible.
You May Develop Chronic Jaw Pain
If you frequently feel slight pains in your jaw, it may be a sign of an underlying issue. TMJ disorders can get worse if they go untreated, and the jaw pain that you once found negligible may eventually become a chronic and debilitating problem. If that slight pain in your jaw doesn’t seem to be going away, your dentist may be able to treat the problem so you can get back to living comfortably again.
You May Have Joint Inflammation and Damage
A TMJ joint that isn’t working properly will not only hurt; it will also stress itself as it goes about its daily motions. This constant strain can cause injuries, leading the problem to get worse over time. This will also lead to inflammation, which can increase pressure on the TMJ and make it vulnerable to further injuries.
You May Experience Headaches
If you have frequent headaches and you’re not sure why, it may be due to an untreated TMJ disorder. The TMJ joint connects the jaw to the skull, and it depends on an elaborate system of muscles to function properly. If these muscles are chronically strained, the result can be recurring headaches that will continue until the underlying problem is addressed.
You May Have Difficulty Sleeping
TMJ disorders are often the result of bite misalignments. When the muscles throughout your body relax during sleep, your jaw may impede the flow of air into your lungs if it isn’t sitting in its proper place. If you aren’t breathing sufficiently while sleeping, your body will naturally respond by waking up, interrupting your slumber and setting you up for a weary day ahead.
Don’t let an untreated TMJ disorder impede your quality of life. Having a consultation with your dentist can help determine the best way to address the problem.
About the Practice
Distinctive Dentistry provides the community of Dallas, GA with excellent oral health services. With Drs. Bobby Shirley, Clay Cannon, and Jack Bickford at the helm, the staff delivers effective dental treatments in a clean and hospitable environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry as well as TMJ treatments. To schedule a consultation about your jaw pain, contact the office online or dial (770) 445-6606.
