Many people experience temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) at some point in their lives. TMJ is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. One of the most common questions people ask is whether TMJ will go away after they have their wisdom teeth removed. In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with some helpful information.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is located on either side of your head, directly in front of your ears. This joint connects your jawbone to your skull and allows you to open and close your mouth. TMJ can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing or speaking.
What Causes TMJ?
There are many factors that can contribute to TMJ, including stress, injury, arthritis, and teeth grinding. In some cases, the condition may be triggered by the eruption of wisdom teeth, which can cause crowding and misalignment in the jaw.
How is TMJ Treated?
Treatment for TMJ varies depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, simple home remedies such as ice packs, over-the-counter pain relievers, and relaxation techniques may be enough to alleviate symptoms. However, more severe cases may require prescription medication, physical therapy, or even surgery.
What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Many people experience complications with these teeth, such as impaction or infection, and may need to have them removed.
How is Wisdom Teeth Removal Performed?
Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation. The procedure involves making an incision in the gum tissue and removing the tooth from the socket.
Can Wisdom Teeth Removal Help with TMJ?
The answer to this question is not entirely clear-cut. While wisdom teeth removal can sometimes alleviate TMJ symptoms, it is not always a guaranteed solution. In some cases, the removal of wisdom teeth may actually exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
Why Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Help with TMJ?
One theory is that wisdom teeth removal can help to relieve crowding and misalignment in the jaw, which can contribute to TMJ. By removing the wisdom teeth, there is more space in the mouth for the remaining teeth to align properly, which can reduce pressure on the jaw joint.
Why Might Wisdom Teeth Removal Exacerbate TMJ?
On the other hand, some experts believe that wisdom teeth removal can actually worsen TMJ symptoms. This is because the removal of the wisdom teeth can cause a shift in the alignment of the remaining teeth, which can put additional strain on the jaw joint.
What Should You Do if You Have TMJ?
If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, it is important to seek the advice of a dental professional. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether TMJ will go away after wisdom teeth removal is a complex one. While wisdom teeth removal can sometimes alleviate TMJ symptoms, it is not a guaranteed solution. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, it is important to seek the advice of a dental professional and explore all available treatment options.
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