Do you have a popping jaw? If your jaw exhibits a popping or crackling sensation, then you may have TMJ disorder, also known as TMD. This common dental health issue affects over ten million people in the United States. Fortunately, comfortable and minimally invasive treatment options exist to restore your jaw to optimal comfort and health.

Popping Jaw and TMJ Disorder Quiz

1. True or False: TMD can make opening and closing your jaw difficult.

2. True or False: Multiple factors can lead to TMJ disorder.

3. True or False: Symptoms include headaches and a popping jaw.

4. True or False: We can address the issue with TMJ therapy.

Answer Key

1. True. This disorder develops when the temporomandibular joints, or jaw joints, undergo excessive amounts of stress. When this occurs, patients may exhibit a number of uncomfortable symptoms and eventually, fully opening and closing the mouth can become difficult.

2. True. Common causes of jaw joint strain include malocclusion, injury to the face or jaw, tooth loss, and bruxism (grinding or clenching teeth). One or a combination of these issues can lead to inordinate strain on the TMJ joints.

3. True. If you have TMD, then you may encounter a number of symptoms, including a popping jaw, headaches, earaches, jaw pain, facial discomfort, neck aches, and shoulder pain. If you grind your teeth, then toothaches and tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may also occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment for a diagnosis.

4. True. Using oral splint therapy, the patient will wear a device at night. The oral appliance will reposition the jaw to ease tension, reducing symptoms of TMJ disorder. You can then enjoy relief.

ABOUT YOUR FORT WORTH ORTHODONTIST:

Dr. Ciro Cabal is a dedicated family orthodontist, whose lifelong passion for providing exceptional dental care continues to this day as he serves patients of all ages from Ft. Worth, Azle, Saginaw, Springtown, Weatherford, Haslet, and the surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment or to discuss your orthodontic options contact your Ft. Worth orthodontist office, or call Lake Country Orthodontics today at (817) 236-7846.