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- TMJ Therapy = "The Great Imposter"
Temporomandibular joint syndrome
TMJ has been called the "great impostor" because of the wide variety of symptoms that often mimic other disorders particularly cervical injuries. Classic TMJ injuries include: Clicking or popping of the jaw joint, grating sounds or pain in jaw joint upon opening, pain on one side of the head or chronic headaches, and the inability to open the mouth fully.
TM disorders include a variety of problems relating to the complex joint in your jaw. You will be glad to know, however, that this problem is more easily diagnosed and treated than it has been in the past. Some types of TM problems cause more serious conditions, which makes early detection and treatment very important.
Answer the following questions:
Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
Does stress make your clenching and pain worse?
Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat, or yawn?
Have you ever injured your neck, head, or jaw?
Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other joints?
Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken, or worn?
The more you answered "yes" to these questions, the greater your possibilities of having a TM disorder. Call on Dr. Gittess (407) 699-1200 to assist in diagnosis and/or treatment.
Dr. Gittess is a dental specialist, an Orthodontist, and he has a special interest in treating TM joint disorders.