What Can Happen if I Don’t Treat My TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the complex hinges that attach the jaw to the skull and give it the wide range of movement necessary for eating and speaking. The TMJ can be gradually or suddenly forced out of alignment due to issues like frequent strain, poor chewing habits, grinding, injuries, and age, and this can cause a range of uncomfortable oral and overall health problems. Here’s a brief guide to how untreated TMJ disorder can negatively affect your life and how your dentist can help you find long-lasting relief from your symptoms.

What Problems Can Untreated TMJ Disorder Cause?

If left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to issues like:

• Headaches, neckaches, backaches, and jaw pain
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Trouble chewing
• Problems speaking
• Popping or clicking noises when moving the jaw
• Changes in bite alignment
• Increased likelihood of sleep-related issues like sleep apnea
• Teeth grinding
• Damage and inflammation of the jaw joints

How Can My Dentist Help?

Luckily, your dentist is trained and equipped to provide effective TMJ treatments that can help patients find lasting relief. By treating the causes of your TMJ disorder, your dentist will be able to reduce the discomfort and damage it inflicts while helping the jaw regain its proper alignment. This can provide a wide variety of benefits such as better sleep, greater comfort when speaking and chewing, and relief of chronic pain.

One method your dentist may use to reduce your TMJ symptoms is a customized nightguard designed to protect your teeth from the damage caused by teeth grinding when you sleep. These customized devices will shelter your smile from unnecessary enamel erosion and gum recession, which can help prevent serious oral health issues like tooth loss and painful dental infections.

Don’t let untreated TMJ disorder be a persistent source of pain in your life. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your teeth and jaw healthy for life.

About the Author

Dr. Luciano Marini earned his dental degree at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency training at Waterbury Hospital Health Center. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Connecticut Dental Association, and the Waterbury Dental Society. His office in Waterbury offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as TMJ services. If you are concerned about TMJ disorder, contact his office online or dial the front desk at (203) 575-9097.