Arthritis is a chronic joint condition that can affect any joint. It involves inflammation of a joint, and commonly leads to pain and stiffness. Arthritis can lead to damage in the joint and its surrounding tissues. When arthritis affects the jaw joint, it is called Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), and it can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.
Dr. Tad Morgan is a Texas-based dentist specializing in TMJ and its associated conditions. Here, we take a look at TMJ and Jaw Arthritis, and Dr. Morgan’s advice for Texas patients who are dealing with these conditions.
Defining Arthritis in the Jaw
When arthritis affects the jaw joint, it can lead to inflammation of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and its surrounding structures. This can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw, and can sometimes result in a clicking, popping, or grating sound every time the jaw is moved. Some may experience headaches or ear pain. In severe cases, the jaw joint can lock, making it difficult or even impossible to open one’s mouth.
Defining TMJ Disorder (TMD)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) encompasses a broad range of conditions that affect the jaw, including arthritis. TMD often results in pain, aching, or stiffness in the jaw joint as well as the surrounding musculature. Additionally, those with TMD may experience clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw; ear pain and headache; difficulty chewing and talking, and even tooth sensitivity and soreness.
Dr. Tad Morgan’s Advice for Texas Patients
Dr. Tad Morgan, who practices in Texas, has helped many patients with TMJ and associated conditions. He offers the following tips to help patients manage TMJ and Jaw Arthritis:
1. Maintain Good Posture and Jaw Position
Dr. Morgan advises patients to be mindful of their posture and jaw position. Slouching or hunching over can put excessive stress on the joints and muscles of the jaw. To prevent this, he suggests that patients should try to maintain good posture and keep the jaw slightly open while working at a computer or using a smartphone.
2. Use Gentle Jaw Movement
Many patients with TMD find that they are more comfortable if they avoid stretching, yawning, and chewing hard or large foods. It can be beneficial to use gentle, controlled jaw movements and to limit activities that require opening the jaw wide.
3. Apply Ice or Moist Heat to the Painful Area
Using ice or moist heat on the painful jaw area can help to reduce inflammation, soothe discomfort, and improve mobility. Dr. Morgan also suggests that patients should try massaging the muscles of the face and neck to help relax the muscles and improve circulation.
4. Avoid Overusing the Jaw Muscles
Overusing the muscles of the jaw, such as through talking or chewing gum for extended periods, can make symptoms worse. Dr. Morgan advises patients to take breaks every hour while working, and to avoid eating hard or sticky foods.
5. Seek Treatment Early
Dr. Morgan stresses the importance of seeking early treatment for TMJ and Jaw Arthritis. Over time, these conditions can progress and become more difficult to manage. By working with an experienced TMJ specialist, patients can receive customized treatments to help alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
In Conclusion
Arthritis in the jaw can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and clicking. Over time, TMJ and its associated conditions can negatively impact a person’s quality of life. However, by following Dr. Tad Morgan’s tips and seeking early treatment, Texas patients dealing with TMJ can find relief and get back to enjoying their favorite activities. Dr. Morgan is committed to helping his patients live pain-free, and on the path to better health.