Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders are more than just a jaw issue; they can significantly impact various aspects of your daily life, including causing persistent neck pain. Dr. Curtis Westersund at Dentalife in Calgary, with over 25 years of experience in TMJ treatment, offers expert care for those suffering from this often misunderstood condition. This blog aims to shed light on what TMJ is, the location of the TMJ joint, how it negatively affects your daily life, and how Dr. Westersund can help you find relief.
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This joint is crucial for basic activities like talking, chewing, and yawning. When problems arise in this joint, it can lead to a disorder known as TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), which encompasses a range of issues affecting the jaw joint’s movement and pain in and around the jaw area.
Where is Your TMJ Joint Located?
The TMJ joint is located on each side of your head, right in front of your ears. It integrates a complex system of bones, discs, muscles, and ligaments. This strategic location allows the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side. However, this also means that any dysfunction in the joint can have widespread effects, not just in the jaw but also in the surrounding areas, including the neck.
How TMJ Can Affects Your Daily Life In a Very Negative Way
TMJ disorders can lead to a myriad of negative effects on your daily life, notably including neck pain. The close anatomical relationship between the TMJ and the neck means that problems in the jaw can easily translate to tension and discomfort in the neck muscles. Here are some ways TMJ disorders can affect your daily life:
- Chronic Pain: The most immediate effect of TMJ disorders is pain, which can be localized to the jaw or spread to include the neck, shoulders, and even the back. This pain can be constant or triggered by specific actions like chewing or yawning.
- Reduced Mobility: TMJ disorders can lead to stiffness in the jaw and neck, limiting the range of motion and making everyday activities uncomfortable or even painful.
- Headaches and Earaches: The pain from TMJ disorders can radiate, causing headaches, migraines, or earaches, which can be disruptive to your daily routine.
- Sleep Disturbances: The discomfort associated with TMJ disorders can interfere with sleep, either making it difficult to fall asleep or causing frequent awakenings.
- Difficulty Eating: The pain and discomfort during chewing can lead to dietary restrictions, impacting your nutrition and overall health.
Finding Relief with Dr. Curtis Westersund, Calgary TMJ Practitioner
Dr. Curtis Westersund at Dentalife in Calgary understands the intricate relationship between the TMJ, the neck, and the broader musculoskeletal system. With over 25 years of TMJ practice, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his approach to treating TMJ disorders. Dr. Westersund employs a comprehensive evaluation process to diagnose the specific issues contributing to each patient’s TMJ disorder. TMJ Neck Pain Treatment plans are personalized, incorporating the latest in dental technology and techniques to provide relief and improve quality of life.
Treatments may include the use of oral appliances to correct jaw positioning, exercises to strengthen and relax the jaw muscles, and advice on lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress on the TMJ. Dr. Westersund’s goal is not just to alleviate the symptoms but to address the underlying causes of TMJ disorders, ensuring long-term relief.
TMJ Pain? Contact Dr. Westersund at Dentalife in Calgary
TMJ neck pain is a significant issue that can affect nearly every aspect of your daily life. Understanding the condition and seeking expert care are crucial steps toward finding relief. Dr. Curtis Westersund’s expertise in TMJ disorders makes him a valuable resource for those suffering in the Calgary area. By addressing the root causes of TMJ disorders, Dr. Westersund can help patients reclaim their comfort, functionality, and well-being.
