TMJ / TMD in D’Iberville, MS
TMJ / TMD Overview
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, a small and fragile joint that connects the jaw to the skull allowing the mouth to move. This joint can become damaged, irritated, or misaligned, causing issues speaking, chewing, or opening of the mouth. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are conditions of TMJ where the nerves and jaw muscles cause chronic facial pain.
Unfortunately, the TMJ is very sensitive to stress (physical, emotional, and psychological). For many people, stress is exhibited in the form of clenching and grinding of the teeth which can occur throughout the day or during sleep. These issues interrupt the normal function of the muscles, joints, and bones resulting in TMD.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Difficulty in opening and closing your mouth; locked joints
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Pain or tenderness while chewing
- Pain or tenderness around your ear
- Pain or tenderness around your jaw
- Pain around the temporomandibular joints
Botulinum Toxin for the treatment TMJ Disorders
If you are experiencing jaw pain, Botulinum Toxin therapy may be a treatment option for you! Although most people know Botulinum Toxin as a beauty-enhancing product that reduces wrinkles and fine lines in the face, it temporarily prevents nerve signals from reaching the muscles. With this in mind, one can understand how it can be useful for relaxing the muscles around the jaw also. Thus, Botulinum Toxin therapy for TMJ helps reduce abnormal muscle contractions of the TMJ and other areas in the facial region. This reduction in contractions leads to muscle relaxation to alleviate facial pain and prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.