Baton Rouge Dentist

Archives for July 2012

Can TMJ Cause Facial Swelling?

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I was diagnosed with TMJ a few months ago. I have noticed when it hurts; my cheeks and jaw line are swollen. I also have some facial pain along with pain in my jaw joint. Is all of this normal? I am concerned about the swelling in my face. I immediately want to think I have an infection of some sort!

Thanks, Jennifer

Dear Jennifer,

Facial pain and swelling are common symptoms of Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) also known as TMJ. TMD seems to be more common in women and can last a short time, come and go over a period of time, or last throughout one’s lifetime. If your dentist is not experienced in treating this type of problem we recommend you see someone that specializes in this disorder and has a lot of training in TMD. Usually an appliance is made for patients to wear during the evening hours, keeping ones bite slightly open relieving symptoms, as well as preventing one from grinding or clenching their teeth. In the meantime, place icepacks on the side of your face where the swelling is for about 20 min several times a day and take Ibuprofen if you have no allergies to it.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.

How do I know if its tartar on my teeth and not plaque?

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My teeth are a yellow white color and I am not sure if it is tarter or plaque. When they do the procedures to remove tartar and plaque how clean will my teeth look? Is it a financially wise to have a dental cleaning?

Thanks, Logan

Dear Logan,

Plaque is a very thin soft invisible film on your teeth that can be removed with brushing and flossing alone. As plaque stays on the teeth it calcifies and becomes visible when it is thick enough and turns into tarter. Once tarter forms on your teeth the only way to remove it is to go to the dentist and have a professional dental cleaning. If plaque and tarter stay on your teeth over a period of time it causes your gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily this is called gingivitis. However if gingivitis is left untreated it turns into gum disease which is when the bone starts to deteriorate around the teeth. This leads to tooth loss. If you want to keep your teeth it is wise to have them cleaned every six months. The longer you go without having them professionally cleaned the more likely you will spend more money on trying to save them when the disease process has progressed.

As for the coloring of your teeth, it could just be the color of your natural teeth. Most people’s adult teeth are not white in color. If after your dental cleaning you still are unhappy with the color of your teeth you do have the option to have them whitened. Ask your dentist about the whitening procedures they offer at the office so you feel comfortable with your smile.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.