Do you deal with constant jaw pain? Does it keep you up at night and affect your ability to function during the day? Has it spread to pain in the muscles, headaches and joint locking? If so, you may be surprised to know how common chronic jaw pain in Billings, MT is and that you aren’t suffering alone. Dr. Brian Francis deals regularly with this problem and has several treatment options for what may be a condition known as a TMJ disorder.
What Is TMJ?
There is a joint that connects the skull and the jawbone and acts like a sliding hinge. It is known as the temporomandibular joint and disorders with it are fairly common. Although it’s difficult to determine an exact cause for each patient’s condition, it may be caused by arthritis, genetics or an injury to the jaw. Regardless of how it started, the goal is to control and manage the problem.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?
The most common symptoms of TMJ problems are:
- Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth because the joint locks
- Aching facial pain
- Pain while chewing, or difficulty in chewing
- Aching pain around or in the ear
- Pain in one or both joints
- Tenderness and pain near the jaw
Those who suffer from TMJ also report a grating sensation or clicking sound that is common during chewing. Once there is limited movement and pain involved in the condition, it’s time to seek help for TMJ in Billings, MT.
Treatment for TMJ Disorders
While many suffer from this condition, few realize that treatment and relief are only one visit to the dentist away. Dr. Brian Francis will examine your jaw closely and may order an X-ray, but most pain can be controlled through therapy, medication and in some cases, surgery.
If you deal with chronic jaw pain and want relief from your symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. Our goal is to help you live a full life free of pain from TMJ disorders. Contact dentist Brian Francis, DMD today.