Why You Should Treat TMJ Pain
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms. When left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to severe consequences. Explore the risks of untreated TMJ disorders and why seeking TMJ treatment is crucial for your overall health.
If you’re looking for TMJ treatment in Vero Beach, contact our dentist today by calling (772) 778-5550.
Seven Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore TMJ Disorders
Chronic Jaw Pain
One of the most common symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder is chronic jaw pain. Chronic pain can make it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep. When left untreated, the pain can become more severe and chronic, making it harder to manage and live a high-quality life. This pain can affect your daily activities, such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping.
Joint Damage
The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of movement. When something goes wrong with this joint, it can cause long-lasting damage to the joint itself. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to joint damage, making it difficult or impossible to open your mouth.
Tooth Loss
TMJ disorders can cause excessive wear and tear on the teeth, leading to tooth loss over time. This is because the jaw joint and surrounding structures are responsible for guiding the movement of the teeth during chewing and speaking. Our skilled dentist in Vero Beach can provide personalized treatments for your TMD-related dental problems.
Sleep Apnea
TMJ disorders can also lead to sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This occurs because the disorder can affect the muscles that control the airway, leading to snoring and other breathing problems. A TMJ disorder and sleep apnea can play off each other, resulting in a cycle of worsened symptoms.
Mental Health Issues
Chronic jaw pain and discomfort can take a toll on your mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. TMJ disorders can also cause stress and difficulty concentrating, making it harder to manage daily tasks. Take control of your physical and mental health by seeking treatment for TMD with Dr. Jonothan Royal.
Recurring Migraines
TMJ disorders can cause recurring migraines, which can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities. Treating the underlying TMJ disorder can help reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches.
Tinnitus
TMJ disorders can cause ringing or buzzing in the ears, known as tinnitus. This can be a frustrating and distracting symptom, and treating the underlying TMJ disorder can help reduce the severity of tinnitus.
Long-Term Consequences of Untreated TMJ Disorder
If TMJ disorder is left untreated, the risks mentioned above can evolve into more severe, long-term consequences.
Degenerative Joint Disease (Osteoarthritis)
Chronic inflammation of the TMJ can lead to the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the joint, resulting in degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis. This condition can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making it difficult for patients to perform basic functions.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Untreated TMJ disorder can contribute to the development of myofascial pain syndrome, a chronic pain condition affecting the muscles and connective tissues around the jaw. This condition is characterized by trigger points—painful knots in the muscles—that can cause referred pain to other areas of the body, such as the neck, shoulders, and back.
Permanent Jaw Damage
Over time, untreated TMJ disorder can cause permanent damage to the jaw joint, including the development of bone spurs, joint erosion, or dislocation. This damage may require surgical intervention to repair and can lead to long-term pain and disability.
Increased Risk of Need for Surgery
Patients who ignore TMJ disorder may eventually require surgery to correct the condition. Surgical procedures, such as arthroscopy or open-joint surgery, are invasive and carry risks, including infection, nerve damage, and prolonged recovery periods. Early treatment of TMJ disorder can often prevent the need for surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do TMJ Disorders get progressively worse?
In some cases, TMJ disorders can get progressively worse if left untreated. This is because the underlying causes of the disorder, such as arthritis or jaw misalignment, can worsen over time. It’s critical to seek treatment for TMJ disorders to prevent the condition from becoming more severe.
Can TMJ cause long-term damage?
Yes. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause long-term damage to the jaw joint and surrounding structures. This can lead to chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and other complications. It’s essential to seek treatment for TMD pain before it worsens.
When does TMJ pain become serious?
TMJ disorders become serious when they interfere with your daily activities, such as eating or speaking. Seek medical attention if the pain or other symptoms associated with the disorder become severe or unbearable. Your dentist can create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs.
When does TMJ pain require surgery?
In most cases, TMJ disorders can be treated with conservative measures, such as lifestyle changes, dental appliances, or medication. Surgery is typically recommended only for severe cases of TMD that have not responded to other treatments. Your dentist or doctor can determine whether surgery is necessary based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder.
Don’t Let Jaw Pain Take a Toll on Your Health Any Longer
Do you have an untreated TMJ disorder? Seek the treatment you need to avoid developing further problems. Contact our dental office in Vero Beach today to schedule an appointment. Get started by calling (772) 778-5550.
Patient Reviews
What People Are Saying
Dr. Royal explains every procedure from start to finish
“Dr. Royal is a very experienced dentist. I found him by accident and glad I did. He explains every procedure from start to finish. I had very little discomfort. His staff is so friendly. I am impressed at how they work together so in sync. Again, I am so pleased to be able to give this feedback and I urge others who are seeking a great dental office to consider Vero Beach Dental Spa!”
Dr. Royal is by far the gentlest dentist I ever had!
“I have had horrific experiences with dentists in the past but Dr. Royal and Vero Dental Spa are the best. When it comes to numbing shots, Dr. Royal is by far the most gentle I have ever had. I hate needles and he made it easy and virtually painless! I highly recommend Vero Dental Spa, you won't be disappointed!!!”
Vero Dental Spa is the absolute best!!!
“I’ve always been afraid to go to the dentist but now, since my first time going I’m completely relaxed and the staff is incredible! ”
The front desk was welcoming.
“Had a cleaning at Vero Dental Spa today. The front desk was welcoming. As usual in less than 5 minutes I was in the chair. Marlene the hygienist deserves a special mention; she was polite, professional, thorough and gentle. Check out was a breeze. This is a well run office.”
Dr. Royal and the entire staff are welcoming
“Dr. Royal and the entire staff are welcoming, professional, and accommodating. Throw in genuine care and good humor. It all adds up to very positive experiences from beginning to end. Highly recommended!”
Dr Royal was so pleasant and professional.
“The entire experience was wonderful. From reception to checkout with Kelly, Elizabeth and Lindsay… Everyone, including Dr Royal was so pleasant and professional. Truly refreshing !”
Dr. Royal is very knowledgeable and a perfectionist
“I've been going here now about 2 years now. Dr. Royal is very knowledgeable and a perfectionist. He's very good at what he does nothing really more to say about it he's also very funny. I don't mind going to the dentist anymore!”
Dr. Royal is by far the gentlest dentist I ever had!
“I have had horrific experiences with dentists in the past but Dr. Royal and Vero Dental Spa are the best. When it comes to numbing shots, Dr. Royal is by far the most gentle I have ever had. I hate needles and he made it easy and virtually painless! I highly recommend Vero Dental Spa, you won't be disappointed!!!”
I highly recommend Vero Dental
“This office and its amazing staff has helped me work through treatment I have been putting off for years - I highly recommend Vero Dental and would not choose any other office.”
Dr. Royal and the staff were amazing
“My first visit today, Dr. Royal and the staff were amazing friendly, professional and efficient!! I was welcomed warmly by everyone and felt like I have always been a patient there! Thank you to the team at Vero Dental Spa! See you soon!!”
Everyone one was so nice and helpful
“Made my first visit to the Vero Dental Spa today and I was extremely satisfied. I was made to feel at ease. Everyone one was so nice and helpful. Going back tomorrow for a cleaning”
Dr, Royal & all of his staff are truly amazing.
“From the moment you walk in the door you are put at ease, They take the time to explain everything to you, They go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and happy with the work they are doing. They truly are all artists that take pride in the work they do & the smiles they create. They are all wonderfully talented and incredibly passionate about what they do. Do your teeth the best favor you can ever do for them & make an appointment to see Dr Royal & the most awesome staff ever at Vero Dental Spa. Give yourself a reason to smile.”
They work hard, and are a great office
“Great, Great, Great! The staff makes the office. Period. Kind staff, doctors are efficient and understanding. They work hard, and are a great office. The new electronic system helps keep things running even more smoothly too. Throughout the last ten years, they have come through shining.”
I have finally found my favorite dentist!
“I have never had such a wonderful experience at the dentist! The staff was so friendly and sweet! Dr. Royal has a great sense of humor and put me at ease even in a dental emergency! I have found my favorite dentist, finally!! Thank you to the staff at Vero Dental Spa, look forward to seeing you again soon!”
Get Your Complimentary
Consultation or 2nd Opinion
- Exam
- Full mouth X-ray
- Private Consultation with Doctor ($350 value)
3036 20th St,
Vero Beach, FL 32960- (772) 778-5550
Working hours
- Monday: 8am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
- Thursday: 8am - 5pm
- Friday: 8am - 1pm
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed