Why You Should Treat TMJ Pain at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms. When left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to severe consequences. Explore the risks of untreated TMJ disorders and why seeking TMJ treatment is crucial for your overall health.
If you’re looking for TMJ treatment in Wilmington and Seaford, DE, contact our dentists today by calling our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.
Seven Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore TMJ Disorders
1. Persistent Jaw Pain
Chronic jaw pain is among the most prevalent symptoms associated with TMJ disorders. This ongoing discomfort can make everyday activities like eating, speaking, and sleeping challenging.
If left untreated, the pain may escalate, becoming more intense and persistent, which can severely impact your quality of life. This discomfort can interfere with routine tasks, such as eating, talking, and even getting a restful night’s sleep.
2. Joint Damage
The temporomandibular joint is a highly intricate joint that facilitates a wide range of movements. When issues arise within this joint, it can result in significant, long-lasting joint damage. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause severe joint damage, potentially making it difficult or even impossible to open your mouth.
3. Tooth Loss
TMJ disorders can lead to excessive wear and tear on the teeth, ultimately resulting in tooth loss over time. This occurs because the jaw joint and surrounding muscles are crucial for guiding the movement of teeth during chewing and speaking. Our experienced dentists in Wilmington and Seaford offer personalized treatments to address TMD-related dental issues.
4. Sleep Apnea
TMJ disorders may also contribute to sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. This happens because TMJ disorders can affect the muscles controlling the airway, leading to snoring and other breathing difficulties. The interplay between TMJ disorder and sleep apnea can create a cycle of worsening symptoms.
5. Mental Health Issues
Chronic jaw pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders can significantly impact your mental health, potentially leading to anxiety and depression. Additionally, TMJ symptoms can cause stress and concentration difficulties, making daily tasks more challenging. Take charge of your physical and mental well-being by seeking treatment for temporomandibular joint disorder with Dr. Paul Brown and Dr. Chris Baran.
6. Recurring Headaches and Migraines
TMJ disorders often result in recurring headaches, such as migraines, which can be debilitating and disrupt daily activities. Addressing the underlying temporomandibular joint disorder can help decrease the frequency and intensity of these chronic headaches
7. Tinnitus Symptoms
TMJ disorders can lead to tinnitus, characterized by ringing or buzzing in the ears, which can be both frustrating and distracting. Treating the underlying TMJ disorder may help alleviate the severity of these symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ disorders can become progressively worse if left untreated. Factors such as jaw misalignment, arthritis, or other underlying causes may deteriorate, leading to more severe TMJ symptoms. It’s crucial to seek treatment for TMJ disorders to prevent these conditions from escalating and causing further complications.
Yes. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause long-term damage to the jaw joint and surrounding structures. This can lead to chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and other complications. It’s essential to seek treatment for TMD pain before it worsens.
TMJ disorders become serious when they interfere with your daily activities, such as eating or speaking. Seek medical attention if the pain or other symptoms associated with the disorder become severe or unbearable. Your dentist can create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs.
In most cases, TMJ disorders can be treated with conservative measures, such as lifestyle changes, dental appliances, or medication. Surgery is typically recommended only for severe cases of TMD that have not responded to other treatments. Your dentist or doctor can determine whether surgery is necessary based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder.
Don’t Let Jaw Pain Affect Your Health Any Longer
Are you dealing with an untreated TMJ disorder? It’s crucial to seek treatment to prevent further complications and protect your overall health. Contact our Wilmington or Seaford dental offices today to schedule an appointment.
Start your journey to relief by calling our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589. We are proud to serve Wilmington, Seaford, and the surrounding Delaware communities.
