What is TMJ? It is an acronym that stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It is the joint that connects your jawbone to the temporal bones on your skull, which are located in front of each ear. Many people suffer from Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD (which people often confuse with TMJ), which causes pain in the hinged joint itself, as well as in the muscles surrounding it that control jaw movement. TMJ disorders can affect just about anyone, but tend to be more common in women than in men, and most often affect people between the ages of 20 and 40. Sufferers experience an array of pain, ranging from slight and temporary to severe and long-lasting. The only way to diagnose your symptoms properly and devise a solution is to see your dentist. Schedule an appointment with our office today if you feel you experience some of these symptoms regularly:
There are many causes of TMD, and without an evaluation from a dentist, you might not ever know what is causing your TMJ pain. Causes contributing to this disorder include the following:
Treatment of TMJ dysfunction begins with a professional evaluation. Your dentist will review your dental and medical history and perform a thorough exam to identify the source of your jaw pain. This may include evaluating your bite, jaw movement, and facial muscles.
In some cases, additional imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may be recommended to determine whether the joint discs are misaligned or if another issue is affecting the temporomandibular joint.
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or difficulty chewing, it’s important to address them early. A trusted dentist in Williamsburg, VA, can help diagnose the problem and recommend the right treatment plan.
Contact us at Norge Dental Center, and we will be happy to schedule a consultation for you! You can reach us at 757-941-5290.
Summer brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, whether you are shopping at a local farmers market, grilling with family, or spending the day outdoors. While most people know that brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are important, many do not realize that certain foods can also support good oral health.At Norge Dental Center, we believe healthy habits start with everyday choices. Adding nutrient rich fruits and vegetables to your diet can help support healthy teeth and gums while giving your body the vitamins and minerals it needs.
Read MoreFor a long time, dental health was treated like it lived on an island, completely separate from the rest of our physical health. We used to think that what happened in the mouth stayed in the mouth, but modern medicine has completely flipped that script.Today, we know that your oral health is actually a major window into your overall well-being. When you take care of your teeth and gums, you are doing so much more than just keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright for photos. You are actively protecting your heart, your brain, and your immune system.The connection between your mouth and the rest of your body comes down to a single, powerful concept: systemic inflammation.
Read MoreLet’s be completely honest for a second. Around here, coffee isn’t just a morning beverage—it’s a lifestyle. If you’ve walked into Norge Dental Center early in the morning, you’ve probably smelled it brewing, and you’ve definitely seen our team clutching our favorite mugs like they hold the secrets to the universe.We love coffee. We need coffee.But as much as we worship the bean, we also worship a healthy smile. And unfortunately, some of the most common daily coffee habits are secretly wrecking your teeth.
Read MoreWhether you’re new to the Williamsburg area, or new to the Norge Dental family… we welcome you to a new dental experience. We are so thankful you are here.
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