When your jaw muscles get too tight, TMJ can occur. Grinding your teeth, stress, or poorly fitting dentures can cause the muscles to get too tight which then leads to this condition. Genetics can also be a big factor because it puts you at a great risk of developing TMJ. Other issues such as bite problems or improperly lined jaws can also lead to the tightening of muscles.

Signs and symptoms typically include an aching pain around or below your ears. This usually affects one side of your jaw instead of both. Yawning will cause the pain to worsen because of the position it forces the swollen jaw to be in and pain could travel to your ears, neck, head, or shoulders. Another sign is if you hear clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth. This could also make it difficult to open your mouth all the way and your teeth might not line up properly when your mouth is closed.

There are a few basic treatments for TMJ that you can do at home. Applying moist heat or cold packs to the side of your face will reduce the swelling and relax your muscles. Stretching exercises might be advised by your doctor that can also help relax the muscles in your jaw. Eating softer foods will lessen the pressure on your teeth and jaw and won’t cause more pain like hard or crunchy foods may tend to do.

Your doctor might also tell you to take off-the-counter pain medications that will relieve the pain and reduce swelling. A higher dose might be needed if the pain is persistent and too much to bear. Discuss which kinds are best for you with your doctor before taking any kind of medicine.

A splint or nightguard can be worn to prevent further clenching and grinding of your teeth. It will serve as a barrier between your jaws to protect against friction. The difference between the two is that splints are worn all day where as nightguards are only worn at night while you sleep. Your dentist will examine your specific situation and tell you if any of these options are right for you.

If your case is too severe for basic treatment, surgery might be necessary. No matter what the cause or what type of treatment you need, Dr Nayssan has taken a specialized TMJ residency program and can diagnose and treat your condition accurately and precisely. If you are experiencing these types of symptoms, don’t hesitate to call our office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Most cases of bad breath originate in the mouth. Eating certain foods such as garlic or onions can intensify the levels of bad breath throughout the day. It is also more severe in the morning due to the lack of oxygen within the mouth overnight. Some cases of bad breath can be eliminated after brushing or using a special mouth wash, but not all cases will go away that easily.

Chronic halitosis affects almost 25% of the population. This can get in the way of relationships with colleagues, business partners, and loved ones. It can also affect your self-esteem. There are a few treatments you can try to help rid your mouth of bad breath, some that are often overlooked.

Tongue cleaning is very, very important for your general oral health, including bad breath. Bacteria and food can stay on your tongue causing a foul odor. By cleaning your tongue’s surface twice a day, you can eliminate the germs and bacteria which cause this odor. A tongue cleaner or tongue scraper are the best tools to use when doing this. Avoid using your toothbrush because it can spread the bacteria around rather than remove them.

Chewing sugarless gums help in saliva production which eliminates dry mouth, another cause of bad breath. It is also recommended when you can’t brush your teeth after eating. The saliva washes away bacteria and cleanses your mouth.

Using mouthwash before you go to bed is also very important. Gargling can get rid of odors and bacteria in your mouth and the back of your tongue. This will keep your mouth fresh before you go to bed and your chance of morning breath will be reduced.

There are three types of dental abscess – gingival, periapical, and periodontal. Gingival abscess only involves the gum tissue and does not affect the tooth. A periapical abscess starts in the dental pulp, the part in the center of the tooth made up of cells and living soft tissue. Periodontal abscess affects the supporting bone and tissue of the tooth.

Symptoms start with a severe toothache. This ache will be persistent and continuous with sharp, shooting, or throbbing pains. Your body will react to the infection and possibly cause a fever, migraine, swollen neck glands, bitter taste or bad breath, and swelling might occur. If you feel any of these symptoms, get your teeth checked immediately by one of our dental professionals.

There are different treatments depending on the severity of your dental abscess. Topical treatments and antibiotics may be given or a root canal can be performed if the tooth can be saved and restored. If the tooth must be removed, you have several options to replace it such as a dental implant. This will be done after you have been treated and there is no sign of an infection.