Are you searching for TMJ treatment in San Diego, CA that is conservative and gentle? Have you bounced around between healthcare providers and still have pain and discomfort? We oftentimes meet patients that have suffered for years without getting help.
Before seeking help for TMJ, it’s important to understand exactly what TMJ is to help you get an idea if you are suffering from it.
So, what is TMJ?
What is TMJ? A Brief Description
TMJ is an acronym that stands for the “temporomandibular joint”. This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull and allows the movement in the jaw like chewing, talking and yawning. But when people refer to “TMJ”, they are actually talking about an issue affecting the joint, and not exactly the joint itself.
TMJ disorders can be caused by a variety of factors including:
- Injury or trauma to the jaw
- Arthirits
- Misalignment of the jaw
- Teeth grinding
- Stress
- And more
Essentially, anything that can cause the joint and surrounding muscles to become damaged can lead to TMJ.
Common symptoms for TMJ Disorders are:
- Ear pain or earache
- Popping sounds in ears
- Headaches
- Stiff or sore jaw muscles
- Pain in the temple area
- Locking of the jaw joint
Many patients see their primary doctor, general dentist, neuromuscular dentist and/or an EENT before a friend or family member mentions upper cervical care to them. The symptoms can vary making misdiagnosis very frequent and common.
Read our blog post to learn why orthodontics aren’t always the right TMJ treatment and how chiropractic care can help.
Keep reading to learn more about TMJ and how to determine if you are at risk of TMJ.
Your Jaw and Your Skull Are Connected
Your Jaw and Your Skull Are ConnectedMost patients don’t think about their skull when they are having TMJ and symptoms. However, the upper jaw is attached to the skull. The lower jaw hinges open and closed by the temperomandibular joints. When there are problems with one or both of these joints, you get a variety of symptoms that affect eating, chewing, talking and even swallowing.
At Intouch Chiropractic we take specialized x-ray images to study the alignment of your skull in relation to your body. If your skull/head is tilted and out of place, it will affect your jaw and your TMJ indirectly. We look to get your head on straight so that when you open and close your mouth, you upper and lower jaw are in the optimal position alleviating the symptoms of TMJ.
With NUCCA | Upper Cervical Care protocols, we help patients get relief for TMJ symptoms without medications, night guards or surgery.
Do This Quick Test
Stand in front of the mirror and tap your teeth together. Now, tilt your head and tap your teeth together. Do you feel the difference? The position of your skull/head affects how your upper jaw and lower jaw function.
Having your head on straight is critical.
I don’t usually leave reviews but this business deserves one! I found them because I was having problems with TMJ. I no longer have any issues with tmj and have felt so much relief. I’ve even had friends and family comment on my face appearing more relaxed. The cherry on top is that my posture has also improved significantly. A low back pain I used to feel even subsided somehow after starting at Intouch. Not to mention their amazing team!! Thank you Intouch chiropractics! – Intouch Chiropractics TMJ Care Review from Haley B.
How to Find TMJ Treatment and Help
We provide a conservative and gentle approach for TMJ relief. We focus on the position of the head and neck and the relationship between the two.
Don’t give up on finding a solution for your TMJ and jaw pain. Call our office to find out if we can help you with your TMJ symptoms at (619) 756-7510 or request an appointment here.
