While dealing with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is difficult for adults, it can be especially arduous for kids and teens / teenagers.
Sure, minor jaw pains are temporary and can be combated with general painkillers. Conversely, the intense, excruciating pains that are associated with TMJ are not so easily countered. They can be disruptive to your everyday life and can even cause anxiety.
As such, finding the most effective jaw pain treatment is the best approach.
Dealing with Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorder
Medically, this issue is related to the temporomandibular joint which links your skull and jaw. People experience TMJ problems when this joint has been overexerted. It can happen when some trauma has occurred or simply too much clenching and grinding of the teeth.
TMJ disorder can be a result of stress-related habits, injuries, and changes in teeth, tissues, and muscles. However, it can also be a trigger for these symptoms to present themselves.
While TMJ disorder can affect anyone, it is much more common in teenagers, especially among girls. Teens who suffer from TMJ disorder often complain of acute migraines, suffer from dizziness, or have tinnitus. In fact, something as simple as yawning or chewing food can lead to excruciating pains.
Those who have these issues often complain about locked jaw or spanning pain moving from their face, head, or ear downwards. The intensity varies for each person—some people can function during these episodes, others cannot.
Pay attention to when the symptoms occur and discuss them with your TMJ specialist.
The Best Approach to Jaw Pain Treatment
There are a number of options to choose from. This depends on the individual and the severity of the problem. The longer you wait, the worse the issue gets.
Your TMJ specialist will recommend a number of ways to counter the issue. Therefore, as your child ages, they can have an evolving treatment plan to adopt preventative techniques.
Some of which includes:
- Muscle Relaxers
- Prescription Medication
- Physical Therapy
- Relaxation Training
- Dental Appliances
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Stretching
- Surgery
Do Not Delay In Seeking Treatment for TMJ Disorder
Unfortunately, this condition is treatable and manageable, but it is not curable.
If you notice any of the TMJ disorder symptoms in your child or teenage, it is best to have your dentist examine them. Early years are an important time to develop habits and prevent future damage from occurring.
You can visit our Deldar offices and set up an evaluation to assess the TMJ disorder symptoms of your teen. From there, Dr. Mike Deldar will recommend the best rehabilitation approach for your family.
TMJ in Teens: Addressing the Often Overlooked Disorder
When it comes to TMJ in teenagers, it’s important to remember that this condition is not limited to adults alone. In fact, jaw pain in teenagers is more common than you might think. As a teenager, it’s easy to dismiss symptoms like jaw pain on one side as just a minor nuisance that will disappear in time. However, if left unchecked, these issues can escalate into a serious condition like TMJ disorder.
Jaw pain in teens can be alarming, especially when it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as earaches or difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. It’s not uncommon for a 13-year-old’s jaw locking to be the first sign of a TMJ disorder. Recognizing these symptoms early can make a significant difference in a teen’s life by ensuring they get the help they need before the condition worsens.
Understanding TMJ in Teenagers
As a parent, it can be concerning to witness your teen struggle with symptoms such as headaches or jaw pain. Often, these symptoms are mistakenly associated with growing pains or hormonal changes, but it’s crucial to recognize that TMJ in a teenager can also be a cause. If your teen has been complaining of one-sided jaw pain or if they’re experiencing episodes of their jaw locking, it’s time to consult with a specialist.
The Complexities of TMJ in Teens
Teenagers who suffer from TMJ disorders experience pain that is far from the average toothache. This chronic jaw pain in teenagers can lead to a host of problems, from difficulty concentrating in school to an inability to participate in enjoyable activities. What’s worse, TMJ disorders can lead to problems eating or even talking.
Treating TMJ in Teens
If you suspect your teenager is struggling with TMJ, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. The earlier TMJ in teens is identified and addressed, the better. Treatment plans for TMJ in teenagers often differ from those for adults, taking into account the teenager’s growth and development. With the right approach, you can ensure that your teen’s TMJ disorder is properly managed, allowing them to live a normal and pain-free life.
Help for TMJ Teenagers
At our Deldar offices, we specialize in helping teens combat their TMJ disorders. Our team, led by Dr. Mike Deldar, is experienced in diagnosing and treating TMJ in teenagers. If you suspect that your teenager is suffering from TMJ, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide the best solutions and ensure that your teen gets the care they need. Remember, early detection and treatment can make a huge difference when it comes to managing TMJ in teens.
