The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is probably one of the most important yet overworked joint in the body. It is the joint surrounded by tissue and muscle that joins the upper cranium to the lower jaw- you have two, one each side of your mouth. Every day in central Leeds, these joints are working every day, whether it’s by you chewing or talking or clenching, they are on the go all of the time. All dental work is linked to the protection of the TMJ because most treatments that you have, from the placement of a crown to orthodontic work, are designed to ensure the occlusion or ‘bite’ in the mouth remains true, so preventing extra stress being placed on the TMJ. However, one of the greatest enemies of the TMJ is teeth grinding; this can do untold damage to the joints and more throughout the head and neck. Some of the most obvious symptoms that imply the jaw is damaged in some way is problems with chewing, the locking of the jaw, ‘clicking’ whenever the jaw is in motion, facial, ear, head and neck pain and problems in the upper back. Depending how bad the problem is, the jaw will require surgery in order to solve the problem, but any signs of teeth grinding should also be addressed as soon as is possible to stop any further damage. Arthritis is also a problem for the TMJ and you will also be putting yourself at risk if you indulge in contact sports. You have to remember that these are two very tiny joints that you expect to do an awful lot of work, which is why they should be treated with respect.
Tags: Central Leeds, oral surgery, TMJ treatment, TMJ treatment Central Leeds
