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.
