San Francisco and Marin CA
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) affects millions of Americans and can cause severe jaw pain, chronic headaches and tinnitus (or ringing in the ears). But TMJ disorder can also impact facial appearance. Today our Bay Area TMJ dentist at Glen Park Dental is reviewing how TMD can cause a change in facial appearance (such as asymmetry), how it can be prevented, and how our San Francisco dentist can help by using comprehensive TMJ treatments.
How does TMJ Disorder lead to Changes in Appearance?
TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint — a small, round joint that connects the jaw to the skull on each side of the head — does not operate properly. Once the joint starts to malfunction, it affects the surrounding musculature and soft tissue. Left untreated, the effects of TMJ disorder multiply, often leading to symptoms that manifest elsewhere in the face, head and spine.
TMJ Disorder Can Alter Appearance in the Following Ways:
- Tooth wear – Some teeth can wear down more than others for multiple reasons. TMD can cause uneven tooth wear, which causes the jaw to have a slanted appearance when a mouth is closed.
- Joint displacement – In some cases of TMJ disorder, the temporomandibular joint itself becomes dislodged, usually because of the deterioration of the cushioning disk. This can make the jaw uneven when opening and closing the mouth. The best way to remedy this is to seek treatment from our Marin TMJ dentist.
- Bone irregularity – If one side of the jawbone becomes shorter than the other, it could be a symptom of TMD. This occurs when the condyle, or the round portion of the jawbone that fits against the skull, experiences excessive wear as a consequence of TMD.
- Overdeveloped muscles – When your temporomandibular joint malfunctions, your jaw muscles must work harder to overcompensate. As a result, TMJ disorder can lead to over-developed jaw muscles on one side of the jaw. These muscles may then bulge, creating a change in facial appearance.
- Spinal imbalance – Over time, symptoms of TMJ disorder can spread through the neck, shoulders and even affect spine alignment. This can even impact the balance in the neck, making a person unconsciously tilt his or her head.
TMJ Dentist in the Bay Area, CA
If you suspect you may have TMJ disorder, the best first step toward healing is to contact our Bay Area family dentist at Glen Park Dental. Give us a call at (415) 799-3900 to schedule an appointment today.
