Jaw Pain / TMJ Disorder

TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ can be extremely painful and is caused by abnormal or lack of motion in the jaw joint(s). This is one of the most commonly used joints in the body. (It moves every time you chew, talk or use your mouth at all.) The abnormal motion creates stress in the associated muscles and irritates associated sensory nerves. Some possible causes or contributing factors are injuries to the jaw area, various forms of arthritis, dental procedures, stress, and clenching or grinding of the teeth.

Symptoms include:

Locking or clicking in the jaw
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Headaches on the side of your head
Pain in or around the ear
Swelling on the side of the face

Healthy Living Tips For Osteroarthritis

Periodic checkups or supportive care. Supporting proper functioning of the TMJ with periodic treatments minimizes the stresses to joints and associated muscles and nerves.

Home exercises. TMJ mobilization exercises and stretches help to keep the TMJ moving properly.

Proper diet and nutrition. Avoid chewy foods such as chewing gum, bagels, steak, hard candy etc.

Utilize stress management techniques. Stress can easily manifest as grinding or clenching of the teeth. While stress can't be totally eliminated there are effective techniques to help bring it under control.

Questions?

Do you have a question about your current situation that you'd like to ask? Send an email with your question to: questions@optimalhealthfcc.com

Contact info

Ph: (515) 964-9966
802 SE Oralabor Road
Suite 121
Ankeny, IA 50021

Location

South of Super Wal-Mart next to Subway and Greenberg's Jewelers

See the Contact Us page for a map to our office

Office Hours

M / Tu / Th: 8:00am-12:00pm, 2:00pm-6:00pm
W: 7:00am-11:00am
Call ahead for availability.

Our patients are saying...

" I would highly recommend him to anyone! "

- Deb F. - Ankeny