You may not realize this, but two little joints in your jaw can have a dramatic impact on your oral and overall wellbeing. Known as your temporomandibular joints (TMJs), they not only connect your lower jaw to your temporal bone, they also make it possible for you to open and close your mouth easily. They don’t always work perfectly, though. Whether because of stress, an improper bite, or a range of other reasons, these joints can dysfunction. When this happens, the nerve endings around them can become exposed, resulting in a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Drs. Daniel and Robert Berquist offer TMJ therapy services at our offices in Crown Point, IN and Whiting, IN that will leave your mouth feeling like brand new.
What Are TMJ Symptoms?
- Morning or late afternoon pain and soreness in the jaw
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing your mouth
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Sensitive teeth
- Earaches
- Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
- Upper and lower teeth misalignment (malocclusion)
- Stiffness or “locked” feeling in the jaw when talking, yawning or eating
- Painful chewing, biting or yawning
- Recent bite changes
- Frequent headaches
The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine. Your pain may be due to a combination of problems, such as arthritis or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, but many people habitually clench their teeth and never develop TMJ disorders. That is why it is crucial to speak with Drs. Robert and Daniel Berquist to determine whether or not TMJ therapy is right for you.
As part of your treatment consultation, Dr. Robert Berquist and Dr. Daniel Berquist will also talk to you about relaxation techniques and other ways of coping with stress. Avoid chewy or hard foods if you can, as they can aggravate your symptoms. It’s also recommended that you try chewing on alternate sides of your mouth.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Are you ready to schedule your next visit with Dr. Robert Berquist or Dr. Daniel Berquist? Speak with our friendly staff in Crown Point, IN and Whiting, IN to reserve an appointment. We are happy to serve our neighbors in Crown Point, Whiting, Merrillville, Cedar Lake, St. John and other communities in Northwest Indiana.
